Political Violence
Violence is increasingly normalized as a political tool, shaping behavior and threatening participation.
Violence is increasingly accepted and used as a means of addressing political differences facilitated by dehumanizing narratives of minority populations and people of different political persuasions. Increasingly visible displays of force by the U.S. military and law enforcement heighten the risk of political violence, both by security forces and citizens protesting or documenting their actions. Responses to political violence, such as the pardoning and commutations of more than 1500 people convicted or charged in connection with the events of January 6, are increasingly politicized to support the objectives of those holding power. This lack of legal accountability may embolden mobilization by non-state militia groups such as the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. Fears of political violence reportedly shaped voter behavior in the 2024 elections preventing some from casting their votes.