A recent survey reveals that 83 percent of Americans are concerned about the threat of political violence, with 42 percent being "very concerned" and 41 percent "somewhat concerned."
The study links this apprehension to the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots. Democrats are slightly more worried than Republicans, associating terms like "January 6," "Trump," and "white supremacy" with political violence, while Republicans mention terms like "fighting," "riots," and "Democrats."
Faculty experts at George Washington University are available to offer insight, analysis and commentary on growing concerns surrounding political violence and how this might impact the upcoming election. If you would like to speak with an expert, please contact GW Media Relations Specialist Tayah Frye at [email protected].
Todd Belt is the director of the Political Management Program at the GW Graduate School of Political Management. Belt is an expert on the presidency, campaigns and elections, mass media and politics, public opinion, and political humor. In addition to his expertise, Belt is co-author of four books and helps to run GW’s political poll, which recently shared new findings. He can discuss the countless ways the January 6th insurrection continues to affect U.S. politics, from campaigns and elections to Americans’ attitudes toward our democratic system.
Casey Burgat is the director of the Legislative Affairs master’s program at the GW Graduate School of Political Management. He is an expert in Congress and Judiciary sections, congressional capacity and reform. He has served as a Senior Governance Fellow and worked at the Congressional Research Service. Burgat also has experience in federal rulemaking, issues of congressional reform and staffing, federal budgeting, and federal advisory committees. He can explore the lasting legacy of the January 6th attack from a congressional perspective.
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