Threats Against Public Officials Surge Amid Mental Health Issues and Political Tensions
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Threats against public officials, especially those that are politically motivated, have increased dramatically in recent years. Prosecutions of such threats nearly tripled during Trump's presidency compared to Obama's second term.
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Most threat perpetrators are male, with a median age of 37. Common factors include mental health issues, life stresses like divorce, and substance abuse.
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Threats often spike after officials are in the news. Republicans faced more threats under Trump, while threats to Democrats also rose sharply.
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Though most threats aren't credible, some perpetrators amass weapons and take steps signaling intent to follow through. A few have later committed violence.
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The barrage of threats has led to officials fearing for their safety and some election workers resigning. Authorities warn the 2024 election could trigger another surge.