Reports indicate that security spending by political candidates in the United States has seen a substantial increase, exceeding five times what was spent prior to the 2016 elections. This rise in spending occurs against a backdrop of escalating fears regarding political violence and threats targeting officials and their families at all levels of government.
According to a report from the nonpartisan Public Service Security Project, security spending during the 2024 election cycle has reached unprecedented levels. The report noted that threats against government workers have risen significantly, raising alarms among candidates.
Details of the Security Spending Increase
The report revealed that spending on digital security, such as data deletion services and online threat monitoring, has seen a remarkable increase. Campaigns and committees have spent over $900,000 during the 2023-2024 cycle, compared to approximately $184,000 in the previous cycle, reflecting an increase of nearly 400%.
Additionally, expenses for securing candidates' homes have also surged, rising from around $130,000 during the 2017-2018 cycle to over $300,000 in the current cycle. These figures illustrate the growing concern among politicians regarding their personal safety.
Background & Context
In recent years, the United States has witnessed a surge in threats directed at politicians. A study conducted by the Minnesota Star Tribune found that threats against workers in the Minnesota Capitol rose from 18 incidents in 2024 to 92 in 2025. Research has also shown that reported threats against public officials' families increased by 3,700% between 2015 and 2025.
These threats come at a time when a significant number of Americans, across the political spectrum, agree that politically motivated violence is on the rise. This situation has prompted some states to consider legal reforms allowing candidates to use campaign funds to secure their offices and homes.
Impact & Consequences
The pressures on politicians due to these threats are mounting, which may affect their ability to perform their duties effectively. Justin Sherman, Vice President of the Security Project, states that any candidate, regardless of party or position, should not have to balance community service with the threats they face.
In Utah, Senator Mike McKell helped pass an electoral law clarifying that candidates can use campaign funds to purchase security systems for their offices and homes. This law reflects the urgent need to provide protection for candidates under the current circumstances.
Regional Significance
The implications of increased security spending extend beyond individual candidates, impacting the overall political landscape. As political violence rises, it poses a threat to democratic processes and the ability of elected officials to engage with their constituents freely.
In conclusion, the rising trend of security spending among political candidates highlights the urgent need for protective measures in a climate of increasing threats. This phenomenon serves as an indicator of the growing political violence and its impact on the democratic process in the United States.