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Survey: 30% Support Political Violence Amid Rising Concerns

10/3/2025

23 1 Full Breakdown

Center

Public Opinion on Violence

A Marquette Law School survey finds 89% say political violence is unjustified, yet 30% believe it may be necessary to restore order.
After the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, 77% view political violence as a major concern.
The survey notes rising acceptance of violence—Democrats up to 28%, Republicans 31%—with 84% of Republicans calling it a major issue.

Left

Trump Expands Terrorism Definition

The Trump Administration issues a directive expanding the definition of domestic terrorism, critics say.
It targets Antifa as an ideology, not a group, raising civil-liberties concerns.
Experts warn the directive could broaden federal scrutiny, affecting nonprofits and First Amendment activity.
The order follows a crackdown on groups after Charlie Kirk's assassination, while Ezra Klein and Ta-Nehisi Coates stress context.

History

Historical Context

The Oklahoma City bombing on April 19, 1995, perpetrated by Timothy McVeigh, killed 168 people and marked a turning point in U.S. domestic terrorism policy. In response, the Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act was enacted, expanding federal powers. Today, a Marquette Law School survey indicates that 30% of respondents view political violence as justifiable, reflecting ongoing tensions around civil liberties and security.

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Public Opinion on Violence

A Marquette Law School survey finds 89% say political violence is unjustified, yet 30% believe it may be necessary to restore order.
After the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, 77% view political violence as a major concern.
The survey notes rising acceptance of violence—Democrats up to 28%, Republicans 31%—with 84% of Republicans calling it a major issue.

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