Fact Check: Threats against Congress members are climbing alarmingly.

Fact Check: "Threats against Congress members are climbing alarmingly."

What We Know

The claim that threats against members of Congress are increasing is supported by data from the United States Capitol Police (USCP). In their 2024 Threat Assessment, the USCP reported that they investigated 9,474 concerning statements and direct threats against members of Congress, their families, and staff. This figure represents a significant increase from previous years, with the number of threats rising from 8,008 in 2023 and 7,501 in 2022. The data indicates a trend of increasing threats, particularly during election years, which typically see heightened political tensions.

Moreover, an article from the New York Times noted that the number of concerning statements and direct threats against Congress members more than doubled from 2017 to 2024. This escalation reflects a broader pattern of political violence and threats against elected officials across various levels of government.

Analysis

The evidence presented by the USCP is credible and derived from official law enforcement data. The USCP has a dedicated Threat Assessment Section that monitors and investigates threats against lawmakers, making their reports a reliable source of information regarding the safety of Congress members. The increase in threats correlates with a rise in politically motivated violence, as highlighted by the Associated Press, which reported on multiple incidents of threats and violence against politicians in various states.

Additionally, the Washington Post corroborated the USCP's findings, emphasizing that threats against Congress members are at an all-time high, with nearly 9,500 threats reported in the previous year. This consistent reporting across multiple reputable sources strengthens the validity of the claim.

However, it is essential to recognize potential biases in the reporting of such data. While the USCP aims to provide accurate assessments, the political context can influence how threats are perceived and reported. The framing of threats as "alarming" may also reflect a heightened sensitivity to political violence in the current climate.

Conclusion

The claim that threats against Congress members are climbing alarmingly is True. The data from the USCP and corroborating reports from reputable news sources indicate a significant and concerning increase in threats against lawmakers over recent years. This trend is particularly pronounced during election cycles, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance and protective measures for elected officials.