A recent Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll found that 43% of Utah voters believe violence against the government can be justified, a significant increase from a previous poll in 2022. The survey of 813 registered voters also revealed that an overwhelming majority of Utahns, 85%, are concerned about political violence.
The poll showed that Republicans were more likely to believe violence against the government can be justified, with 46% holding this view compared to 38% of Democrats. Among likely voters for former President Donald Trump, 51% said violence can be justified, while 38% of likely voters for Vice President Kamala Harris believed the same.
Younger individuals were more likely to support political violence, with 62% of those aged 18-34 saying it can be justified. Men were also more likely than women to hold this belief, with 51% of men and 36% of women supporting violence against the government. Additionally, the poll found that members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints were divided on the issue, with 35% saying violence can be justified.
The poll results suggest that perspectives on political violence are influenced by identity and ideology. Concerns about political violence in the lead-up to the 2024 election have been growing, with recent incidents including assassination attempts on Trump and shootings at a Democratic campaign office for Harris. In response to the potential for post-election violence, precautions are being taken in swing states like Arizona, where poll workers are undergoing active-shooter drills.
Many experts are concerned about the possibility of political violence in the coming weeks and months, but emphasize that ordinary people can play a role in defusing tensions and preventing violence. Despite the heightened concern, they believe that violence is not inevitable.
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