The media is cherry-picking FBI data to make Trump look like liar.
Recent FBI statistics reveal a notable decline in violent crime in 2023, directly contradicting former President Donald Trump’s claims that crime rates are “through the roof.” Overall, violent crime fell by about 3 percent compared to 2022, while homicides and non-negligent manslaughter dropped nearly 12 percent. These figures suggest a positive trend after the crime surge experienced during the pandemic.
However, the media has been quick to cherry-pick data to frame Trump’s assertions as false. In a recent debate, ABC News moderator David Muir confronted Trump about his claims, citing the FBI’s findings to imply that he was misleading the public. This tactic not only misrepresents the broader context of the statistics but also overlooks the ongoing challenges many communities face.
The spike in violent crime during the early pandemic years was unprecedented, with homicides increasing nearly 30 percent in 2020. Experts have attributed this rise to various factors, including economic distress and public health disruptions. Yet, as the FBI’s 2023 data shows, we are now seeing crime rates return closer to pre-pandemic levels, with the violent crime rate dropping from 377 incidents per 100,000 people in 2022 to 364 in 2023.
While large cities reported a nearly 7 percent reduction in violent crime, mid-sized communities experienced a slight uptick. It’s essential to look at the full picture, rather than isolating specific data points to support a narrative. The media’s selective reporting fails to acknowledge the complexity of crime statistics and the significant progress that has been made.
Moreover, while some analysts raise concerns about the completeness of FBI data, it’s important to note that the report includes information from over 16,000 law enforcement agencies, covering a substantial portion of the population. Research from the nonpartisan Council on Criminal Justice further supports the positive trend, showing a 13 percent decrease in homicides in major cities during the first half of 2024.
As the 2024 election approaches, it is vital for conservatives to recognize the media’s tactics in shaping narratives around crime and safety. By focusing on the facts and promoting policies that support law and order, we can work toward solutions that truly address community safety while ensuring that public discourse remains rooted in reality.
