On Jan. 6, 2021, the United States of America watched in fear as a mob stormed the capital, fueled by conspiracy theories of a stolen election. What began as a political disagreement became an unprecedented attack on America’s democratic process. 

Since January 6th, America has been more divided than ever, with the root of it stemming from which party is in office. For years, conspiracy theories and rising polarization have continued to spark anger on both sides of the political divide. 

In 2022, a man broke into Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s home and attacked her husband with a hammer. In 2023, an armed man was arrested outside former President Barack Obama’s home for posting violent threats online. In 2024, an assassination attempt against President Donald Trump shocked the nation, showing how fragile political safety truly is.

Recently, Charlie Kirk, the political activist and founder of Turning Point USA, sent shockwaves through America. Kirk was assassinated by an unknown shooter at a speaking engagement at a college in Utah. Though Kirk never ran for any political office, he was known for his commentary, outspoken support for right-wing causes, and his role in mobilizing young conservatives. Kirk’s death was a reminder to all the real danger of extreme rhetoric.

This shows that this trend of targeting politicians isn’t just limited to one party. Prominent members of both parties have faced threats, intimidation, and even attempts on their lives. It doesn’t matter if it’s local or national level, political violence does not protect freedom; it destroys it. It sends a message that violence is an acceptable response to political frustration, but the truth is, it creates a climate where disagreements are no longer solved through debates or elections. 

This is not the America the Constitution was made to protect. The risk is not just to politicians but to democracy itself.