Physical violence and psychological abuse against female and male mayors in the United States

Despite reports of physical violence and psychological abuse against US officeholders, the subject has not been addressed in research at any level of government. This study reports results from survey research of mayors with three aims: examination of the frequency, types, and correlates of experiences of physical violence and psychological abuse among mayors; exploration of gender differences; and estimates of the effects of violence and abuse on mayors’ desire to stay in office. Our findings suggest that US mayors face meaningful levels of physical violence and psychological abuse – and these events are widespread across types of cities. Our data also show that female mayors are more likely than men to experience most types of violence and abuse. And, although having these experiences did not reduce the majority of officeholders’ political ambition, those who suffered physical violence were more likely than those who faced psychological abuse to have considered curtailing their political careers. Finally, we consider the implications for these results on the quality and diversity of future representation.