Fears of political violence rise as 40% foresee candidate assassination in five years

Fears of Political Violence Rise as 40% Foresee Candidate Assassination in Five Years

A Politico poll conducted in October reveals that 55% of Americans expect political violence in the United States to increase. This concern comes amid a year marked by tragic incidents of political violence.

Recent Incidents Highlight Growing Tensions

In September, political activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated on the Utah Valley University campus. Tyler Robinson, identified by friends and family as a known leftist, has been charged in connection with the assassination.

Earlier, in June, Minnesota Democratic Speaker of the House Melissa Hortman and her husband were shot and killed at their home. The suspect, Vance Boelter, reportedly maintained a hit list including dozens of Democratic lawmakers.

Partisan Blame on Political Rhetoric

Following Kirk’s assassination, both Democrats and Republicans have accused each other’s rhetoric of fueling the surge in violence.

“Kamala Harris voters and individuals over 55 had the highest percentage, 61%, who believed political violence would continue to escalate,” states the poll.

Meanwhile, 50% of Donald Trump voters also expected an increase, along with 49% of adults aged 18 to 34 and 53% of those aged 35 to 54.

Poll Details

Conducted by Politico and Public First
Sample size: 2,051 U.S. adults
Polling period: October 2025

This data underscores widespread anxiety about the future stability of American politics amid a climate of escalating violence.

Author’s summary: A recent poll reveals deep public concern over rising political violence in the U.S., with 40% fearing assassination of candidates within five years amid high-profile attacks and partisan tensions.

The Baltimore Sun — 2025-11-07