Political Violence in the 21st Century

Political polarization and increased party affiliation in the U.S. are at recent historic highs, and the past year especially has seen a growing amount of political violence in the country. There were more assassinations or assassination attempts between July 2024 and September 2025 than at any other time since 1968, the year that saw the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. and subsequent nationwide protests. The September 2025 killing of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk sparked disparate responses online. Though many condemned the actions of the shooter, others made jokes or expressed indifference. These responses echo those following the 2024 assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, prompting concerns over the seemingly growing level of acceptance Americans have with violence.

Political polarization in a democracy has been shown to correlate with higher levels of political violence, and this political division in the U.S. is increasingly being reflected in the sentiments of political party figures. Following the political assassination of a Minnesota state lawmaker and her spouse in June 2025, a Utah senator was reprimanded for making a joke regarding the shooter. In September 2025, two House Republicans were admonished for using slurs against transgender people and calling for their institutionalization. Republicans and some Democrats have criticized Democrats’ use of the terms “Nazi” and “fascist” when referring to the Trump administration.

This context can be useful for planners, who have reported increasing harassment and threats at public meetings. A 2025 survey of local officials found more than 70 percent of respondents believe these increases relate to their positions on specific policy issues. Certain strategies can help mitigate disruptions, such as calling a recess or adjusting the meeting design, but deep familiarity with community members and their perspectives is key to guiding productive conversations.