Guarding Democracy: The Fight Against Political Violence Ahead of 2026 Elections

The Rising Threat of Political Violence

In recent years, the landscape of American politics has transformed drastically, not just in rhetoric but in threat levels. From assassinations to near-fatal attacks, the atmosphere has become increasingly perilous for public figures. Donald Trump narrowly escaping an attempt on his life in Butler, PA, is a stark reminder of the risks that candidates now face. The reality is chilling; elected officials and candidates are inundated with threats, rendering the once vibrant campaign trail fraught with dangers.

Invisible Forces Shaping Campaigns

The specter of violence casts a shadow over democratic processes, altering not just behavior but fundamental decisions regarding participation in politics. Candidates now often avoid public gatherings, fearing for their safety. The ramifications extend beyond physical violence; they also influence legislators' votes, as fear of repercussions governs actions behind closed doors.

The Democracy Security Project: A Crucial Response

In response to this unsettling climate, organizations like the Democracy Security Project are stepping up. Founded by Democratic strategists in 2024, this nonprofit offers crucial training for candidates and elected officials on how to enhance security at campaign events, safeguard their online presence, and protect their offices. With threats constantly looming, their services have become indispensable.

Surging Demand

Interest in security training has surged following the tragic assassination of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman. More than 800 candidates approached the Democracy Security Project for guidance after her murder, demonstrating the urgency of the situation. The organization's co-founders, Jess O'Connell and Maju Varghese, highlighted that over 10,000 individuals have been trained in less than two years across all 50 states—a clear testament to the critical need for their services.

Understanding Candidates' Fears

As I spoke to O'Connell and Varghese, the overarching sentiment was a deep concern for familial safety. Candidates now find themselves grappling with questions they never had to consider before: How safe is my family? What are the implications of my public profile on my children's safety? These thoughts weigh heavily on the minds of potential candidates, particularly when discussing doxxing and swatting—real threats that often make the distinction between running for office or stepping back.

Preparing for Threats

Varghese emphasized the importance of having open conversations about these dangers, urging candidates not to shy away from discussing their digital footprints and its implications. “If you don't talk about it, you can't prepare,” he remarked, highlighting a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of campaign safety.

A Call to Denounce Violence

The urgent call for a bipartisan denouncement of political violence cannot be overstated. In an era where selective denunciations dominate the narrative, Varghese stressed that it's imperative for society to uniformly condemn violence, regardless of the perpetrator or victim. This proactive stance could be pivotal in fostering a safer political environment.

Inclusivity in Support

The Democracy Security Project maintains a commitment to inclusivity, emphasizing that their services are available to any candidate who reaches out, regardless of their political affiliation. “We've never turned anyone away,” O'Connell shared, reinforcing their mission: to shield those dedicated to serving the public despite the threat of violence.

Addressing Financial Concerns

The founders addressed concerns of accessibility to their services, especially for grassroots candidates. They assured that they operate on a sliding scale, aiming to ensure that financial worries do not hinder anyone from receiving the support they need. “We have your back,” O'Connell reassured potential candidates, promising dedicated resources focused entirely on their safety and security.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The increasing violence and intimidation in politics demand urgent solutions. As voters, we must advocate for policies that protect our candidates and public officials from these threats. It's a collective responsibility that requires all hands on deck—regardless of party lines. The future of our democracy depends on these leaders feeling secure enough to represent us.

“There are individuals whose job it is to wake up every day thinking about how to keep them safe.”

As we march toward the 2026 elections, let's amplify the calls for safety and security that candidates desperately need. The stability of our political landscape lies not just in our ability to vote, but in creating environments where candidates can operate without the fear of violence.