How many mass shootings in the USA were committed by individuals with a known political affiliation?

Checked on September 12, 2025
Disclaimer: Factually can make mistakes. Please verify important information or breaking news. Learn more.

This fact-check may be outdated. Consider refreshing it to get the most current information.

Was this fact-check helpful?

1. Summary of the results

The analyses provided do not offer a direct answer to the question of how many mass shootings in the USA were committed by individuals with a known political affiliation [1] [2] [3]. However, they do provide insight into the rise of politically motivated violence and the connection between extremist groups and mass shootings. According to a report by the Anti-Defamation League, all U.S. extremist mass killings in 2022 were linked to the far right [2]. Additionally, data from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) shows a dramatic rise in attacks and plots motivated by partisan views since 2016 [4]. The analyses also highlight the partisan division over gun control in the U.S. House, with Democrats calling for gun laws and Republicans blaming liberals for the shooting [5]. It is clear that there is a growing concern about the connection between political extremism and mass shootings, but the exact number of mass shootings committed by individuals with a known political affiliation is not provided [1] [2] [3].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

A key missing context in the original statement is the definition of "known political affiliation" and how it is determined [1]. The analyses also lack a comprehensive database of mass shootings committed by individuals with a known political affiliation [3]. Furthermore, the sources do not provide a clear distinction between mass shootings committed by individuals with a known political affiliation and those committed by individuals with other motivations [4] [5]. Alternative viewpoints, such as the role of mental health and social media in mass shootings, are also not fully explored [6] [7] [8]. The sources also do not provide a thorough analysis of the impact of gun control laws on mass shootings [5]. It is essential to consider these alternative viewpoints to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the issue [1] [2] [3].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement may be biased towards implying that mass shootings are primarily committed by individuals with a known political affiliation [1]. However, the analyses suggest that the connection between political extremism and mass shootings is complex and multifaceted [2] [4]. The statement may also be misleading, as it does not provide a clear definition of "known political affiliation" or a comprehensive database of mass shootings committed by individuals with such an affiliation [3]. The sources also highlight the partisan division over gun control, which may indicate that the issue is highly politicized [5]. It is crucial to approach this topic with a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved and to avoid oversimplification or misinformation [1] [2] [3]. The fact that many Republicans, including President Donald Trump, condemned the shooting of Charlie Kirk, while also blaming Democrats for the shooting, may indicate that the issue is being used for political gain [9]. Ultimately, it is essential to rely on credible sources and to approach this topic with a critical and nuanced perspective [1] [2] [3].

Want to dive deeper?
What is the correlation between mass shootings and extremist ideologies in the USA?
How many mass shootings in the USA were committed by individuals with a known affiliation to far-right groups?
Can mental health issues be linked to mass shootings with a political motivation in the USA?
Which political affiliations are most commonly associated with mass shootings in the USA?
How do US gun control laws address individuals with a history of extremist political views?