For many Americans who had never seen an assassination attempt on a major political figure in this country, when a gunman opened fire on former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, this summer, it It was the first time it had happened.
However, in recent years there has been a sharp increase in threats and violence against political candidates and their supporters. Homeland Security officials recently warned that the domestic threat environment is expected to remain elevated next year, due in part to the 2024 election cycle.
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Over the past few months, Scripps News has been digging into this alarming trend. We have uncovered cases where people have been sent to prison for making threats, and cases where victims have been admitted to hospitals.
We reviewed dozens of cases, police reports, body camera footage, and court documents, and spoke to those in power whose job it is to protect democracy. Understand where it comes from and how it is changing.
