A new national survey commissioned by the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism (GPAHE) and conducted by Edge Research reveals a troubling picture of American democracy in 2026, showing that Americans feel deeply concerned about political violence, election security, and threats at polling places. From fears of armed voters at polling places to expectations of another January 6-style attack, the findings paint a portrait of a nation where distrust and instability are becoming normalized.
1. Political violence is now seen as a major national problem
An overwhelming 84% of Americans say political violence is a problem in the United States today, reflecting wide concern that political conflict is increasingly spilling into threats, harassment, and violence and have become part of the political landscape.
2. Most Americans expect another election crisis
The aftermath of the 2020 election continues to cast a long shadow. More than three-quarters of Americans believe it is likely that the losing side in a future presidential election will attempt to challenge or obstruct the results, and seven in ten think another January 6-style event could happen again.
3. Many Americans are afraid to participate in politics
Nearly seven in ten Americans report being nervous or afraid to engage in at least one routine political activity, including voting, attending rallies, displaying campaign signs, opening the door to canvassers, or discussing candidates with others. Gen Z voters report the highest levels of political fear.
4. More than 60% fear violence at the polls
Majorities of respondents are worried about people carrying guns at polling places and the possibility of a violent attack or shooting on election day. Concerns about voter harassment, militias, and politically motivated intimidation are also widespread. Among the greatest fears for Black and Latino people is others carrying guns at the polls.
5. Some voters would walk away rather than risk intimidation
One of the survey’s most concerning findings is that 15% of voters say they would leave without casting a ballot if they experienced or witnessed harassment or intimidation at their polling place. Among voters from Black and Latino communities, that number rises to more than one in five.
6. Americans are increasingly worried about ICE
Thirty-three percent of Americans say they are very worried about future attacks carried out by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), a higher level of concern than respondents expressed about groups such as the Proud Boys or anti-government militias. Among Black and Latino respondents, concern about ICE is especially high.
7. Confidence in elections is alarmingly low
Only 26% of Americans say they are very confident that U.S. elections are free and fair. At the same time, concerns about voter fraud remain widespread among society even though there is little evidence of fraud.
8. Trust in political leaders has collapsed
76% say elected officials primarily serve themselves and their financial supporters rather than the country. Almost two-thirds feel they no longer have meaningful political influence.
9. Most Americans believe the country is dangerously divided
Nearly seven in ten respondents believe the United States is as divided as it was during the Civil War. Many see political polarization not as a temporary challenge but as a defining feature of American life, one that is fueling distrust, instability, and fears about the future of democracy.
10. Americans are willing to trade privacy and civil rights for security at the polls
More than 70% say security cameras at polling places would make them feel safer, while roughly seven in ten support local law enforcement presence near polling sites. The findings suggest that concerns about Election Day violence are driving greater acceptance of measures that could fundamentally change the voting experience, creating an unwelcome environment for some, especially people of color.
11. Black and Latino Americans face a different reality when it comes to voting
Black and Latino respondents consistently reported higher levels of concern about violence, intimidation, and harassment at polling places than white respondents. Concerns about armed voters, extremist groups, and law enforcement presence were particularly pronounced, highlighting how election security fears are not experienced equally across communities.
A Warning Sign for American Democracy
As the country moves toward another election cycle, the survey suggests that millions of Americans are preparing not for a routine democratic process, but for the possibility of disruption, intimidation, and political unrest. Confidence in elections remains low and large majorities expect conflict surrounding the next presidential election.
