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Fact check: What is the demographic breakdown of individuals who attempt to assassinate liberal politicians?

Checked on September 17, 2025

1. Summary of the results

The analyses provided do not offer a clear demographic breakdown of individuals who attempt to assassinate liberal politicians [1]. However, some sources suggest that there is a growing trend of politically motivated killings and assassination attempts in the US [1]. A study by the Network Contagion Research Institute found that nearly one-third of Americans surveyed, and around half of those identifying as left-of-center, believe that the murder of certain public figures is at least somewhat justified [2]. Additionally, some sources report that young people, particularly those under 30, are more likely to commit violent acts such as assassinations, often due to feelings of insignificance and a desire for attention [3]. The psychological characteristics of individuals who commit assassinations, including a tendency to suffer from deep personality inadequacies and a lack of outlets for frustration, are also discussed [4].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

A key missing context in the original statement is the definition of "liberal politicians" and the specific time frame being considered [1]. Alternative viewpoints suggest that the rise in politically motivated killings and assassination attempts is not limited to one side of the political spectrum [5]. Some sources also highlight the importance of considering the role of social media and the internet in creating a sense of intimacy and connection between public figures and their followers, which can sometimes lead to violent acts [4]. Furthermore, the concept of "political grief" and its impact on individuals, particularly young people, who are exposed to violent political events through social media, is also relevant [6]. The fact that a 22-year-old suspect has been arrested in connection with the murder of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, suggests that age may be a factor in some cases of political violence [7].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement may be biased towards implying that individuals who attempt to assassinate liberal politicians belong to a specific demographic, without providing sufficient evidence to support this claim [1]. Some sources may benefit from this framing, such as those who seek to emphasize the threat of violence from one side of the political spectrum [5]. On the other hand, sources that highlight the complexity of the issue and the need to consider multiple factors, such as social media and psychological characteristics, may provide a more nuanced understanding of the problem [4]. The fact that some sources report on the killing of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, while others discuss the aftermath of his murder and the Trump administration's response, suggests that there may be a political agenda at play in the way that information is presented [8] [7].

Want to dive deeper?
What are the most common demographic characteristics of individuals who commit political violence?
How do the demographics of assassins who target liberal politicians compare to those who target conservative politicians?
What role does mental health play in the demographic breakdown of individuals who attempt to assassinate politicians?
Are there any notable trends in the demographic breakdown of individuals who attempt to assassinate politicians in the United States since 2020?
How do law enforcement agencies use demographic data to identify and prevent potential threats to liberal politicians?