America Teeters on Edge of Rising Political Violence: Expert's Stark Warning

America on the Brink: Expert Warns of Rising Political Violence In a stark warning, Dr. Barbara Walter, a renowned political scientist at the University of California San Diego, has cautioned that America is teetering on the edge of a more perilous phase in its politics. The expert's concerns come as the country grapples with an uptick in lone-actor violence and a polarized security apparatus. According to Dr. Walter, who has studied how democracies slide into instability, the recent killing of Charlie Kirk was not just a tragic event but also a symptom of a deeper issue. "The reaction to it today feels different," she noted in an interview with The Gray Area podcast. "Instead of rallying around a message of restraint, key leaders treated it as ammunition." This shift has been accompanied by a rise in tit-for-tat attacks and a politicized security apparatus, which Dr. Walter believes points to a more treacherous landscape for American politics. "We're seeing a normalization of force," she warned. "Leaders' rhetoric is contributing to this trend, making it seem acceptable to use violence as a means to achieve political ends." Dr. Walter's concerns are not unique to America. In recent years, many countries have witnessed an increase in violent extremism and polarization. The global context is marked by rising nationalism, social media-fueled radicalization, and the erosion of trust in institutions. In Europe, for instance, far-right groups have been linked to several high-profile attacks, while in Asia, extremist ideologies have fueled violence against minority communities. "The world is facing a perfect storm of factors that are contributing to this rise in political violence," said Dr. Maria Stephan, a senior fellow at the United States Institute of Peace. Back in America, Dr. Walter's research suggests that addressing the root causes of lone-actor violence requires a multifaceted approach. This includes improving mental health services, promoting civic engagement, and fostering inclusive dialogue among communities. "We need to lower the temperature," she emphasized. "It's not just about security measures; it's about creating an environment where people feel heard and valued." As America navigates this complex landscape, Dr. Walter's warnings serve as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing these issues before they escalate further. With elections looming on the horizon, policymakers will need to prioritize finding common ground and promoting inclusive policies that address the underlying causes of polarization. Byline: Sarah Johnson, International Correspondent Date: October 13, 2025 *Reporting by Vox.*