Most Americans are bracing for an uptick in political violence, with many fearing the assassination of political figures could become a grim reality in the coming years. A recent POLITICO and Public First poll reveals a deep-seated expectation of increased violence, highlighting a consensus across age, gender, and political affiliations, despite the nation's sharp divisions.

The poll, coming in the wake of high-profile attacks including the assassination of Charlie Kirk and attempts on Donald Trump's life, found that 55 percent of Americans anticipate more political violence. Notably, older voters and Democrats expressed particular concern, reflecting a broader anxiety about the nation's political climate.

Disturbingly, a significant minority—24 percent—of Americans now say violence is sometimes justified, a sentiment surprisingly consistent across party lines but more prevalent among younger individuals. This belief is especially stark given the recent violent incidents, from the targeting of Nancy Pelosi's husband to the killing of Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman, which have shaken the public and lawmakers alike.

Robert Pape, a political science professor at the University of Chicago, emphasizes that the U.S. is not merely approaching a violent era but is already living in one, describing the current period as an era of "violent populism." According to Pape, the normalization of such violence could embolden more individuals to consider it a viable form of expression.

Despite these concerning trends, the majority of Americans, about 64 percent, still firmly reject violence as a means to political ends. However, the persistence of a considerable segment that condones violence under certain circumstances suggests a potential shift in public sentiments, possibly influenced by ongoing political and social turmoil.

The rising culture of violence has also impacted political figures directly, with nearly 10,000 threats investigated last year by the U.S. Capitol Police. Local officials are not immune, facing increased harassment and threats, which could deter potential candidates from entering politics, thereby affecting democratic representation.

The influence of extreme partisanship is evident, with negative views about major institutions correlating with expectations of increased violence. This sentiment is particularly strong among those who are hesitant to express their political views publicly, adding another layer of complexity to the nation’s political discourse.

In response to the volatile environment, leaders like Utah Governor Spencer Cox have called for engagement and dialogue across political divides to find a resolution and prevent further escalation. Yet, the challenge remains significant, as 41 percent of Americans report not having a close friend from an opposing political party, underscoring the depth of the nation's political and social fragmentation.

As America grapples with these issues, the need for a collective reassessment of the value and impact of political violence becomes ever more urgent, aiming to restore a climate where differences are settled through dialogue rather than violence.