Rising Tide of Political Violence Raises Alarms Across the U.S.

As the new year begins, a former FBI agent has issued stark warnings about the unsettling rise of political violence in the United States, citing recent high-profile incidents that showcase an alarming trend. The assassination of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk in September 2025 highlights the dangers of escalating ideological tensions, prompting calls for immediate attention to this the emerging issue.

Why It Matters

This surge in politically motivated attacks signals a potential shift in societal norms towards acceptance of violence as a means of expressing dissent. With significant increases in assaults on law enforcement agencies and targeted threats against public figures, the implications for national security and civil discourse are profound.

Key Developments

• Charlie Kirk was killed on September 10, 2025, an event characterized as a "political assassination."
• A bullet allegedly used in the murder carried the engraved phrase, "Hey fascist, catch," raising questions about the influence of political rhetoric on real-world violence.
• The Department of Homeland Security reported a staggering 1,150% increase in assaults against ICE officers in 2025 compared to the previous year.
• In late September 2025, Joshua Jahn opened fire at an ICE facility in Dallas, resulting in one death and two injuries.
• Former FBI agent Jonathan Gilliam warned that the normalization of political violence poses serious threats for the future.

Full Report

Growing Concerns

Former FBI agent Jonathan Gilliam voiced urgent concerns over what he perceives as a normalization of violent actions motivated by political beliefs. Kirk’s assassination is seen as part of a broader continuum of violence against political figures. In an interview, Gilliam noted that ideological violence may be becoming more acceptable in some circles.

Statistics reveal a shocking trend. The Department of Homeland Security found that assaults targeting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers skyrocketed in 2025, reflecting heightened animosity toward federal law enforcement. This includes a September shooting incident at an ICE facility where the attacker, Joshua Jahn, reportedly expressed intentions to instill terror among agents.

Adding to the alarm is the history of assassination attempts against public figures, including two noted attacks on former President Donald Trump in 2024. Any sign of increasing tolerance for these actions is especially concerning, according to Gilliam.

Normalization of Violence

Gilliam expressed that societal acceptance of politically motivated violence could lead to further escalation. He referenced individuals who have been idolized for their violent acts as indicative of shifting perceptions around such behaviors.

His commentary aligns with a broader societal trend where some Americans may increasingly rationalize violent actions as justifiable forms of expression. The veteran agent cautioned that this trajectory could culminate in more serious acts and that the peak of political violence may yet be on the horizon.

Context & Previous Events

In 2024, attempts were made on Donald Trump’s life during his campaign rallies, one incident resulting in a gunshot wound. This uptick in politically charged violence has been coupled with rising tensions across various segments of society, reflecting deepening ideological divides.

Meanwhile, in September 2025, a shooting at an ICE facility in Texas, perpetrated by Jahn, underscored a growing trend of targeted attacks against specific groups and individuals, revealing a concerning path ahead if these actions continue unchecked.

As the nation grapples with these incidents, the question remains: How far will political violence escalate, and what can be done to stem the tide?