“Divide and Conquer” – Almost a Quarter of Americans Think Violence May Be Necessary To Save the United States

Gabriel RomanNov 2, 2023

Minute Read

In recent times, America stands divided on several fronts. The 14th annual American Values Survey highlights these differences and reveals some surprising insights into the beliefs and values of the American people. As the nation stands on the cusp of another election year, many are questioning what these findings mean for the future of democracy in the US.

A Fractured Nation’s View on Violence

The fabric of American society appears to be tearing at its seams, as a concerning number of citizens support using violence to salvage their vision of the country. The American Values Survey captured this division, which indicates nearly 25% of respondents condone such drastic measures. This data shows the depth of the nation’s divisions.

Insight into American Thoughts

In a quest to understand the undercurrents of American thought, the American Values Survey sidesteps policy preferences for a closer look at underlying values. They ignored the usual metrics of public opinion for something far more personal. The results offer a unique perspective into what Americans hold dear, which, as it turns out, can be quite controversial.

Questions on Violence

The Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) has consistently chacked America’s pulse on the use of violence for political gains. This has been especially important since the troubling events at the Capitol in early 2021. This shows whether such sentiments are a temporary anomaly or indicative of a long-term trend.

A Panoramic View of the Nation’s Psyche

To gather these insights, the survey cast a wide net across the American landscape. Conducting online interviews with over 2,500 adults from all corners of the United States, this methodology ensured a broad and inclusive snapshot of the nation’s sentiments. It captured a diverse mix of voices in a time of significant national introspection.

An Upward Trend in Advocating Violence

More than one-fifth of Americans now seem to agree that violence could be the tool needed for the country’s salvation. This uptick exceeds previous records. This suggests a growing faction within the population that sees force as a means to an end. It signals a potential shift in the boundaries of acceptable political discourse.

A Divide Among Party Lines

Image Credit: danielfela / Shutterstock.

The response to whether violence by “true American patriots” might be necessary shows a divide that runs along party lines. With 23% in agreement overall, a noticeable increase since 2021, the sentiment among Republicans is particularly strong, where a third agree. This factional split reveals much about the contrasting visions for America’s future held by its citizens.

Religious Groups and Violence

The survey highlights a particular resonance with violence within certain religious demographics. A third of white evangelical Protestants could see violence as justified in the patriotic cause. This association between faith and the endorsement of force poses questions about the moral justifications that different groups employ regarding political action.

The Shadow of Election Doubt

Editorial credit: mark reinstein / Shutterstock.

Nearly half of those who condone political violence are also those who believe the 2020 election was unfairly taken from Donald Trump. The alignment of these beliefs suggests a deadly combination of political disillusionment and a willingness to consider violence. It’s a feeling echoed among individuals supporting theories of election theft and demographic replacement.

Opinions of PRRI’s Founder

Robert P. Jones, PRRI’s president, has warned, “The political temperature in America is rising… we should be deeply concerned about the growing number of Americans who express openness to political violence.” This prediction assessment from someone at the forefront of researching American values shows the critical point the nation has reached.

Perceptions of Democracy

The confidence in American democracy appears shaken to its core. An overwhelming majority across the political spectrum predict it will come undone in the near future. This sense of an impending threat to democratic principles cuts across party lines. It suggests a sad picture of a system in jeopardy.

Deep Polarization in America

Editorial credit: Thomas Hengge / Shutterstock.

Some users commented on the divide in the American population. One user said, “This small quarter of Americans are Trump’s MAGA followers. The same type of people who stormed the capital on Jan. 6th. If they do use violence, they will end up in jail just like all the other insurrectionists.”

A Clash of Perceptions

One reaction squarely blames President Biden for failing to deliver on his promises: “Biden leads in lying! He told us he would stop the hate and bring us world peace!” This illustrates a profound disappointment and a sense of betrayal. They argue it contributes to the climate of division and the view that leaders have fallen short of their lofty vows.

Detailed Survey Results

While the survey’s findings are troubling, some argue that the solution lies in moderation and unity. One user stated, “Saving the country requires that the extremes be put in their place, and the rest of us work together to find solutions that work for the majority of the American people.” They suggested that coming together can stop the extremes on both ends of the political spectrum.

A Stern Warning Against Violence

Some users gave clear warnings, saying: “Insurrectionists will be crushed! Do they really want to die or spend the rest of their lives in prison… for the Orange Creep??” They argued that the law may respond seriously to any repeat of insurrectionist behavior. It is a reminder of the potential costs of treason.

Global Implications of Internal Strife

Other users echoed the international consequences of American internal conflict. One commentator noted, “Divide and conquer. This is just what the rest of the world is waiting for.” This suggests that the polarization within the U.S. may weaken its position globally. It could potentially play into the hands of foreign enemies who are eager to see the country fail.

Religious Groups and Violence

One user compared Republican supporters to insurgents, stating, “Since traitorous Republican scum make up less than 28% of the total population of our country, that would make sense. The GOP is America’s Taliban.” This harsh critique underscores the hatred some hold toward the Republican party.

Contextualizing the Minority’s Views

However, some argue that the idea of supporting violence is not held by the majority. One user said, “Doesn’t that mean a MAJORITY of Americans DON’T believe violence is needed to save the country?” This observation suggests that while some endorse extreme measures, most Americans still stand by peaceful and democratic processes.

Insight into American Thoughts

Some reactions to the survey results come with a warning for those contemplating violent actions. A commenter advises, “Join your insurrectionist brothers in jail as Trump destroyed their lives with his Big Lie. Democracy in this Republic doesn’t want or need you!” The message is clear – engaging in anti-democratic behavior could lead to severe consequences.