Donald Trump often uses crime statistics to criticize the Biden-Harris administration, claiming that crime has surged under their watch. But is there any truth to this claim? According to Pete Buttigieg, the current Secretary of Transportation, crime rates have actually decreased since Trump left office in 2020.
In a recent X (formerly Twitter) post, Buttigieg stated, “Crime went up under Trump. Crime is down under Biden-Harris. We’re not going back.” This echoes what he said in a viral Fox News interview in July, where he advised viewers to check the facts for themselves.
Understanding crime statistics can be complex. The FBI’s data is often used to gauge crime trends, but it doesn’t capture all incidents, and different types of crime can vary by location. Economic and social factors can also influence crime rates, making it hard to pin down how much any one factor or administration affects the numbers.
The FBI’s latest data is from 2022, with full statistics for 2023 expected before the upcoming election. According to this data, violent crime, including murder, rape, and assault, has generally decreased in large cities since Trump left office. However, some crimes, like vehicle theft, have risen during Biden’s presidency.
It’s worth noting that Trump’s first term saw a rise in crime during 2020, partly due to the pandemic, economic stress, and social justice protests. These factors likely contributed to the spike in crime that year. Some commenters have pointed out that Trump’s crime statistics were affected by these extraordinary circumstances.
Under Biden, the FBI updated its crime-reporting procedures, which some argue might make it seem like crime rates have dropped more than they actually have. The FBI allowed old reporting methods temporarily to address these issues, so it’s still uncertain how the new procedures will affect crime data.
Trump also blames migration and “sanctuary cities” for rising crime, but the data doesn’t support this. Many cities that have received migrants have seen crime rates decrease, and experts find no clear link between immigration status and criminal activity.
While crime rates appear to be declining overall, factors beyond either administration’s control have influenced the data. Buttigieg’s statement is accurate in suggesting a downward trend, though it simplifies a more complex picture. The 2023 FBI data should provide a clearer view of the current crime landscape.
