More see domestic terrorism as bigger threat than foreign terrorism: Survey
A Reuters/Ipsos poll found that more Americans view domestic terrorism as a greater threat to the average person's safety than terrorism originating abroad. The survey reported 33% naming domestic terrorism as the top threat, 20% pointing to foreign terrorism and 42% saying random violent acts were the greatest concern.
Why It Matters
Public perceptions about which threats are most pressing can influence political priorities and resource allocation for public safety and counterterrorism. The poll shows a notable emphasis on homegrown and non-terror violent risks over foreign threats.
Key Facts
- Poll: Reuters/Ipsos poll
- Domestic terrorism: 33% said it is the most significant threat to the average American's safety
- Foreign terrorism: 20% said it is the most significant threat to the average American's safety
- Random violent acts: 42% identified random violent acts as the most significant threat
A new Reuters/Ipsos poll finds Americans are more likely to see domestic terrorism as a bigger danger to personal safety than terrorism from abroad. When asked which type of threat poses the greatest risk to an average American, 33% of respondents pointed to domestic terrorism, while 20% cited foreign terrorism. The largest share of respondents — 42% — identified random violent acts as the top concern for everyday safety, outpacing both domestic and foreign terrorism in the survey's ranking. That result indicates many Americans place greater emphasis on unpredictable acts of violence than on organized terror, whether domestic or international. The poll’s results reflect where public worries currently lie and could shape conversations about where policymakers and law enforcement focus attention and resources. By placing domestic threats and random violent incidents ahead of foreign terrorism, the findings suggest public demand for strategies that address internal radicalization and general violent crime as part of overall safety planning. The survey was conducted by Reuters in partnership with Ipsos and presents a snapshot of public sentiment about different categories of threats to personal safety.
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Original source: The Hill