Americans Have Significant Fears About Voting

GPAHE: Americans are entering the next election cycle with deep fears about political violence, intimidation, the safety of voting, and the future of democracy, according to a new national survey commissioned by GPAHE. The findings reveal a country where many voters no longer view political unrest as a remote possibility but as an expected feature of American life. Eight in ten Americans believe political violence is a problem in the United States today, while seven in ten expect efforts to overturn election results, or even another January 6-style attack following the next presidential election.

Less than half of those polled feel safe at their polling places. More than 60% are worried about people carrying weapons at the polling place as well as a possible violent attack or shooting. GPAHE has sent letters to all secretaries of state advocating for the banning of guns at the polls.

The survey’s findings arrive at a moment when many Americans believe the country is approaching a dangerous political crossroads. Nearly seven in ten say the U.S. is as or more divided than it was during the Civil War. More than half blame Trump for our divided nation. For millions of Americans, fears about violence, intimidation, and democratic instability are no longer hypothetical concerns. They have become part of the calculation of whether it is safe to participate in public life, express political views, or even cast a vote.

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