News|Donald TrumpIs JD Vance right in blaming left for political violence in the US?Vance claims left-wing violence is on the rise, but long-term data show right-wing attacks have been far higher.
## Regulation: Political Violence Analysis
Regulation: Political Violence Analysis
A recent study by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) examined the trend of politically motivated violence in the United States over the past three decades. The report, published in September 2025, analyzed 750 "terrorist" attacks and plots from 1994 to July 4, 2025.
The CSIS report defines "terrorism" as the use or threat of violence with the intent to achieve political goals by creating a broad psychological impact. The study highlighted several important points regarding the trends in political violence:
Increase in Left-Wing Violence: Since 2016, left-wing violence has risen from low levels but remains much lower than historical levels of violence by right-wing and jihadist attackers. Decrease in Right-Wing Attacks: A sharp decline in right-wing attacks was recorded in 2025, potentially influenced by the political climate under President Trump's administration. Comparative Lethality: Left-wing attacks have been less deadly than right-wing attacks. Over the past decade, left-wing attacks resulted in 13 fatalities, compared to 112 from right-wing attackers. Incident Numbers: The rise in left-wing attacks in 2025 was notable but based on a small number of incidents: four attacks and one disrupted plot.
It is important to note that the study underscores the complexity of categorizing political violence, as ideological motivations can be multifaceted. The report also indicated that while left-wing violence increased in early 2025, right-wing violence had been more prevalent over the previous 30 years.
The report, published in September 2025, analyzed 750 "terrorist" attacks and plots from 1994 to July 4, 2025.
Research prior to 2025 largely points to a higher incidence of right-wing violence over extended periods. However, the 2025 findings indicate a short-term increase in left-wing activity. The CSIS report emphasizes that the left-wing threat, while currently notable, remains significantly lower than the historical impact of right-wing and jihadist violence.
In conclusion, while recent data shows an uptick in left-wing violence, the longer-term analysis still reflects a greater prevalence of right-wing political violence in the United States.
Chief correspondent Louis Jacobson contributed to this analysis.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.