World Immigration News

Nearly 54% of extreme conservatives say the federal government should use violence to stop illegal immigration

Release Date: 2025-01-06
Media: The Conversation
Summary: Donald Trump's anti-immigrant rhetoric has been a key part of his political career, but during his 2024 presidential campaign, it became even more extreme. In September 2024, he compared undocumented immigration to a "military invasion" and later suggested that immigrant criminals have "bad genes." A recent survey found that many Americans, especially conservatives, support the use of violence to stop unauthorized immigration. For example, 47% of conservatives and 54% of extremely conservatives agreed that the government should use violence, while 41% of extreme conservatives justified vigilante violence against migrants.

While most Americans do not support violence against immigrants, the survey revealed disturbing levels of approval for such actions among certain groups. This type of rhetoric, which has been linked to increased support for political violence, could contribute to more anti-immigrant attitudes and potential violence. The language Trump and other political figures use, such as calling immigration an "invasion," has been connected to real-life incidents, such as the 2019 El Paso shooting, where the shooter referenced an "invasion" of Hispanics. Experts warn that a second Trump presidency could further fuel violent rhetoric and behavior towards immigrants.
Tags: USA

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