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Study Reveals Minority Supports Authoritarianism Over Democracy

10/2/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Many Americans reject authoritarianism and political violence, yet a notable minority favors strong leadership over democracy.
UC Davis's Centers for Violence Prevention study began in 2022 to assess attitudes toward political violence.
Results show some would endorse military enforcement of government policies and may engage in violence.
The May–June 2025 online survey included 8,248 participants from a representative panel.

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Story summary

Many Americans reject authoritarianism and political violence, yet a notable minority favors strong leadership over democracy.
UC Davis's Centers for Violence Prevention study began in 2022 to assess attitudes toward political violence.
Results show some would endorse military enforcement of government policies and may engage in violence.
The May–June 2025 online survey included 8,248 participants from a representative panel.