Protecting Local Democracy: Policy Solutions to Address Rising Threats Against Officeholders - May 14, 2025

This brief outlines the latest research on hostility toward local officials and presents two critical recommendations that can advance efforts to mitigate risk: (1) investing in independent, sustained threat monitoring systems to inform holistic policy solutions over the long term; and (2) expanding access to funds for personal security for local officials in the short term. These measures will help ensure that officials — regardless of their independent financial resources — can continue to safely and effectively serve their communities.