The Changing Landscape of Murder Rates in the United States: Debunking the Myths Around Trump and Biden

One of the most contentious topics in American political discourse is the changing murder rates since the election of Donald Trump in 2016 and the presidency of Joe Biden that followed. With claims and counter-claims circulating, it's crucial to examine the data objectively to understand the truth behind these figures.

The Stats on Murder Rate

Since 2000, data has shown a marked increase in the murder rate per 100,000 people in red states compared to blue states. From 2015 onwards, the climb in red states became steeper, while both regions experienced increasing murder rates from 2020 onwards. This trend is supported by a variety of data sources, making it a verifiable fact.

When considering mass shootings, there has been a significant decline since Joe Biden took office. This decrease is even more pronounced when national crime statistics are taken into account. Nationally, crime rates have fallen by 13% since Biden became President. Moreover, cities like Chicago and Detroit, often referred to as the murder capitals of the country, have also seen a drop in violent crime. Detroit's current murder rate is such that it hasn't been observed since the 1960s.

Controversy and Falsehoods

However, the narrative around these trends is often muddied by misinformation. One common claim is that the murder rate rose under the Biden administration due to so-called "soft-on-crime" policies. Critics also allege that large Democrat-controlled cities have stopped reporting violent crimes to the FBI, leading to a misleading decrease in reported statistic.

It is essential to separate fact from fiction in this debate. While there are valid concerns about crime policies, the assertion that the murder rate increased under Biden due to his policies is not supported by the data. The reality is more nuanced, with both pre- and post-Biden periods showing a rise in the murder rate, mirroring trends seen in both red and blue states.

Conclusion

The rise in murder rates in the U.S. during the Trump and early Biden administrations is a complex issue that can be understood through an examination of empirical data. While the murder rate has indeed increased, it is important to acknowledge the broader context and the multifaceted nature of the issue. Policies and events influencing crime rates extend beyond a single administration and involve a range of factors, including economic conditions, social policies, and law enforcement strategies.

As the debate continues, a clear-eyed and evidence-based approach to understanding crime statistics is vital. We must strive for a more informed and accurate discussion to address the issues at hand and work towards safer communities for all Americans.