Trump’s Attacks on Rivals Fuel Rise in Threats, NBC Review Finds
The recent increase in political tensions in the United States has resulted in a significant rise in threats against lawmakers. The Capitol Police reported an alarming escalation in threats against members of Congress, their families, and staff in 2024, marking the second consecutive year of this trend. The number of concerning statements and direct threats surged from approximately 8,000 in 2023 to nearly 9,500 in 2024. This reflects a growing atmosphere of political violence linked to incendiary political rhetoric.
Escalation of Threats Against Lawmakers
A research study by the Chicago Project on Security and Threats (CPOST) revealed that during Donald Trump’s presidency, there was a staggering 600% increase in charged threats and attacks against Congress members compared to Barack Obama’s second term. The data indicated that there were 148 such incidents during Trump’s tenure, contrasting sharply with just 21 during the Obama years. Under President Joe Biden’s administration, the number of charged threats remained relatively stable, with 140 individuals charged.
Political Violence: A Growing Concern
- Threats against lawmakers increased from 8,000 in 2023 to nearly 9,500 in 2024.
- Threats and attacks jumped 600% during Trump’s term (148 incidents).
- Only 21 incidents were recorded during Obama’s second term.
- 140 individuals were charged with threats during Biden’s presidency.
Professor Robert Pape from the University of Chicago cautioned that the U.S. has entered a new era of political violence. Americans increasingly attribute political incidents to extreme rhetoric rather than viewing them merely as the actions of disturbed individuals. For instance, a recent poll showed that 61% of respondents viewed heated political discourse as a contributing factor in violent events, such as the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Impact of Trump’s Rhetoric
Lawmakers have voiced concerns that Trump’s provocative statements exacerbate existing threats. Following Trump’s public attacks on Democratic leaders, many reported a surge in death threats directed at their offices. Notably, Representative Elissa Slotkin stated that her office received hundreds of threats soon after Trump’s accusations against her. Republican representative Marjorie Taylor Greene also expressed that Trump’s rhetoric had instigated threats against her and her family.
- Slotkin reported nearly 1,000 threats following Trump’s comments.
- Greene faced threats and a pipe bomb incident at her business after Trump’s remarks.
Responses from Lawmakers
In light of the threats, lawmakers have emphasized the need for political discourse to remain civil. For instance, Indiana state legislators also experienced threats after Trump called out certain Republicans for not supporting a controversial redistricting plan. Reports indicated that legislators in Indiana received multiple threats, leading to a discussion about the bullying tactics seen in political disagreements.
Conclusion
The rise in threats against U.S. lawmakers highlights the significant risks associated with current political rhetoric, especially amidst a climate where public figures frequently target each other with inflammatory language. This trend calls for urgent attention to ensure the safety of politicians and the integrity of democratic processes.
