Fact Check: Threats against Congress members are on the rise.

Fact Check: "Threats against Congress members are on the rise."

What We Know

The claim that threats against members of Congress are on the rise 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 an increase from 8,008 cases 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 and rhetoric.

The USCP has noted that threats are communicated through various channels, including mail, email, telephone, and social media. The rise in threats has been attributed to a perceived anonymity on social media platforms, which encourages individuals to make threatening statements without fear of immediate repercussions. Additionally, the USCP has implemented measures to enhance the safety of Congress members, including the establishment of a new Protective Intelligence Operations Center to better assess and respond to threats (USCP Threat Assessment Cases for 2024).

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim comes primarily from the USCP's official data, which is a reliable source given its direct involvement in monitoring threats against Congress members. The reported increase in threats aligns with broader observations made by various news outlets. For instance, a New York Times article highlighted that threats against lawmakers have more than doubled from 2017 to 2024, reinforcing the USCP's findings. Furthermore, the Washington Post corroborated this trend, noting that the number of threats is significantly higher than in previous years.

However, while the data is compelling, it is important to consider the context. The increase in threats may be influenced by the current political climate, which has seen a rise in political polarization and violent rhetoric. The Associated Press also reported that credible threats to Congress members have more than doubled over the last decade, indicating a long-term trend rather than a sudden spike.

Overall, the sources used in this analysis are credible and provide a consistent narrative regarding the rise in threats against Congress members. The USCP's data is bolstered by independent journalism that reflects on the implications of these threats in the context of political violence.

Conclusion

The claim that "threats against Congress members are on the rise" is True. The evidence from the USCP and corroborating reports from reputable news sources confirm a significant increase in threats over recent years, particularly in the lead-up to elections. This trend highlights ongoing concerns regarding the safety of lawmakers and the impact of political discourse on public behavior.