‘Fear and Menace: How Politics is Being Transformed to Reach You at Your House’

The Rise of Political Violence in America: Threats, Intimidation, and Fear

In recent weeks, the ugly side of public service in America has been on full display, with government officials facing a barrage of threats, harassment, and violence. From bomb threats closing libraries to activists making death threats, the landscape of public life in America has become increasingly dangerous.

Democratic congressman Jamie Raskin’s experience is just one example of the growing trend of threats against public officials. Raskin, who played a key role in Donald Trump’s impeachment hearings, has faced a constant stream of menacing calls, emails, and letters, prompting him to seek a protective order against a man who showed up at his house screaming about various issues.

But Raskin is not alone in facing such threats. From judges to election officials, the wave of violence and intimidation has become a new normal in American public life. Threats against federal judges have increased by 150 percent, while the U.S. Capitol Police investigated over 8,000 threats to members of Congress last year.

The climate of intimidation is thriving on political division and distrust, fueled by social media platforms that amplify outrage and spread misinformation. Both Republicans and Democrats have reported threats, with right-wing causes and beliefs often associated with recent acts of political violence.

The impact of these threats is far-reaching, with public officials changing how they do their jobs in response. Many report feeling less willing to seek higher office or take on controversial issues, while turnover among election workers has spiked.

As the landscape of American politics becomes increasingly volatile, the need to address and combat political violence has never been more urgent. From local officials to federal judges, the threat of violence looms large, shaping decisions and instilling fear in those who serve the public.