Summary
A poll suggests that 30% of Americans think political violence may be needed to correct the country's direction, a view increasing among Democrats. The survey shows a divide on who people are more concerned about facing violence, with nearly equal numbers worried about threats to public officials and protesters. The poll also indicates most people feel the country is on the wrong path and have concerns about speech restrictions.
Key Facts
- 30% of surveyed people believe political violence may be necessary, up from previous polls.
- 28% of Democrats, 31% of Republicans, and 25% of independents think violence might be required.
- 77% see political violence as a major issue, split on concern over public officials or protester safety.
- A survey of over 1,400 people was done through various communication methods with a margin of error of +/- 3.1 percentage points.
- 62% think the country is going in the wrong direction.
- 79% believe there are too many limits on free speech, with similar views across political lines.
- Most think the government should have a limited role in controlling speech.
- The survey took place against a backdrop of recent high-profile political violence incidents.