(Washington Insider Magazine) – Recent data indicates a surge in Americans endorsing political violence, underscoring potential threats to democracy as the 2024 presidential election approaches. In a June survey by the University of Chicago’s CPost research center, it was found that Trump’s federal indictment has spurred radicalized support for the former president, with roughly 18 million Americans now believing that force might be warranted to restore him to office. These sentiments represent a 6 million increase since April, revealing a troubling trend of escalating political extremism.
The “Dangers to Democracy” report highlights a polarizing effect not only among Trump’s supporters but also within liberal demographics. Survey leader Robert Pape explained that, alongside Trump’s base, there is growing support for forceful action on the left to restore federal abortion rights, although no organized groups have emerged to act on this sentiment. As the election cycle intensifies, concerns over Trump’s criminal cases are also igniting radical beliefs across the political spectrum.
Key findings show that 68% of Trump’s radical supporters see the 2020 election as stolen, while 62% suspect the indictments are aimed at damaging his 2024 campaign. These figures reveal that political loyalty is transforming into aggressive support, a stark contrast to the broader conservative base, where Trump’s favorability has slightly dropped.
Interestingly, the research also discovered that Democrats increasingly support coercion to influence Congress. From January to June, those in favor of using force to compel lawmakers grew from 9% to 17%, primarily among Democrats, with notable advocacy for the reinstatement of federal abortion rights. Pape warns that this uptick in approval for violence on both sides reflects a dangerous trend, risking societal destabilization if left unchecked.
The survey further shows a growing belief in conspiracy theories. Many respondents continue to suspect that a secretive “deep state” controls the government, underscoring the persistence of radicalized attitudes. The study’s findings come amid expectations of additional indictments against Trump, heightening concerns about increased political extremism as the first GOP debate and election season draw near.