Polarization and Easy Access to Personal Information: Politically Motivated Violence Is Rising

The Smerconish Podcast · Jun 19, 2025 · 29m

Michael speaks with retired Secret Service agent and ABC News contributor Don Mihalek about the alarming rise in politically motivated violence following the targeted killings of Minnesota lawmakers. Mihalek explains how grievances, political polarization, and easy access to personal information—fueled by the internet and dark web—are creating unprecedented threats to public officials. He warns that local leaders, once considered safe from such dangers, are increasingly vulnerable "soft targets." The conversation explores the shifting threat landscape, the burden on law enforcement, and the…