Reveal America’s New Era of Violent Populism Is Here
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Jan 14, 2026 Join Robert Pape, a University of Chicago political science professor renowned for his research on political violence, as he explores the unsettling rise of violent populism in America. He discusses the implications of Trump's pardons for January 6 insurrectionists, linking demographic shifts to increased political violence. Pape reveals the unexpected backgrounds of many insurrectionists and emphasizes how economic inequality fuels resentment. He also shares glimmers of hope, citing widespread rejection of political violence among Americans.
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Emergence Of Violent Populism
- A new layer of political violence emerged around 2016 that sits on top of older right-wing militancy.
- This new era, which Robert Pape calls violent populism, broadens the profiles and reach of violent actors.
Demographic Shift Fuels Political Risk
- The U.S. is transitioning from a white majority to a white minority democracy, fueling political instability.
- Pape links this demographic shift to increased support for political violence among those who fear losing status.
Suburban Rage At The Capitol
- Pape's court-document study found January 6 participants were often professionals from suburbs and blue counties.
- Many were well-off, suburban residents directly on the front lines of demographic change.