A new poll released by the University of Maryland this week shows that nearly 25% of Americans believe that the FBI initiated the violent riots at the Capitol on January 6. The poll, which surveyed 800 registered voters, found that 28% of Republicans and 24% of Independents agree with this claim, compared to just 11% of Democrats.
The findings of the poll are particularly alarming in the wake of the 2021 presidential inauguration. Health care, the economy, and climate change were listed as the top issues facing America by all 800 surveyed, yet a significant number believes that the FBI had a hand in the riots that disrupted the transition of power.
The findings of the University of Maryland poll show a deep distrust of the government, especially amongst Republicans and Independents. This is problematic since the government is the institution responsible for providing the security and safety of its citizens. These findings could have serious implications for the American political system post-inauguration should this distrust of the government continue or increase.
It is clear that the poll’s findings are concerning for many. The belief that the FBI was not protecting the Capitol but instead causing chaos on the day of the inauguration uncovers a deep-rooted suspicion of the law enforcement and intelligence services. Beyond that, it points to a damaging distrust of the American government at large and suggests that further education and awareness is needed for all Americans, regardless of political party.
A new poll released by the University of Maryland this week shows that nearly 25% of Americans believe that the FBI initiated the violent riots at the Capitol on January 6. The poll, which surveyed 800 registered voters, found that 28% of Republicans and 24% of Independents agree with this claim, compared to just 11% of Democrats.
The findings of the poll are particularly alarming in the wake of the 2021 presidential inauguration. Health care, the economy, and climate change were listed as the top issues facing America by all 800 surveyed, yet a significant number believes that the FBI had a hand in the riots that disrupted the transition of power.
The findings of the University of Maryland poll show a deep distrust of the government, especially amongst Republicans and Independents. This is problematic since the government is the institution responsible for providing the security and safety of its citizens. These findings could have serious implications for the American political system post-inauguration should this distrust of the government continue or increase.
It is clear that the poll’s findings are concerning for many. The belief that the FBI was not protecting the Capitol but instead causing chaos on the day of the inauguration uncovers a deep-rooted suspicion of the law enforcement and intelligence services. Beyond that, it points to a damaging distrust of the American government at large and suggests that further education and awareness is needed for all Americans, regardless of political party.