Guns, community watch groups: these Americans are ‘standing by’ for possible US election violence
- Some worry protests over a disputed election could escalate into civil unrest and communities are trying to de-escalate tensions
- A recent poll found around a third of Americans justified violence to advance political goals, double the number in December 2019
For Americans like financial adviser David Powell, the greatest worry is that they could be forced to take sides to protect civil rights, private property and even lives.
“I’m not part of any group, don’t want to be part of a group, I’m your regular guy who is watching the news and is getting really concerned,” said Powell, 64, of Raleigh, North Carolina. He said he worries about “antifa thugs”, a term US conservatives use to describe left-wing anti-fascist activists. He said he is prepared to “stand guard” in his community, if necessary.
09:59
Interruptions and insults dominate first Trump-Biden US presidential debate
Some people are planning foreign holidays around Election Day or heading to rural retreats. Others have bought guns for defence. Firearm sales hit a monthly record of 3.9 million in June, according to FBI data. Ammunition for AR-15-style rifles is on back order in states like Washington and Colorado.