Freshness note: This analysis was last updated 28 days ago. Fast-moving policy claims can change quickly, so check for newer official updates before relying on this verdict.
“Trump claimed the crime rate is now the lowest it's been since 1900, spanning 125 years”
Summary
Crime rates in the United States have declined significantly in recent years according to FBI data, with violent crime reaching levels comparable to the early 1960s. However, the claim of the lowest rate since 1900 lacks support from complete historical data, as comprehensive nationwide crime statistics were not systematically collected until the 1930s, and recent data collection methodology changes and incomplete reporting create gaps in comparability.
Primary Sources
Rated the claim 'Half True' based on crime data trends and historical comparison limitations
Federal database of crime statistics collected through the Uniform Crime Reporting program
Federal source for criminal justice statistics including National Crime Victimization Survey data
Official FBI program that has collected crime data from law enforcement agencies since 1930
Evidence Supporting the Claim
- Violent crime rates in 2023 and preliminary 2024 data showed significant decreases compared to recent peak years
- FBI data indicates property crime has been declining for multiple consecutive years
- Murder rates declined substantially in 2023 and continued downward trends into 2024 according to available reporting
- Some crime categories reached levels not seen since the 1960s based on available FBI statistics
Evidence Against / Context
- The FBI did not begin systematic nationwide crime data collection until 1930, making comprehensive comparisons to 1900 impossible
- Historical crime data from 1900-1930 is incomplete and based on limited local sources rather than national reporting
- The FBI transitioned to a new National Incident-Based Reporting System in 2021, creating data collection gaps and comparability issues
- Participation rates in FBI crime reporting have been incomplete, with some major cities not reporting data in recent years
- Crime rates in the 1960s and earlier periods of the 20th century were lower than current rates for some categories
Timeline
FBI began Uniform Crime Reporting program, establishing systematic national crime data collection
FBI transitioned to National Incident-Based Reporting System, affecting data collection and comparability
FBI reported significant declines in violent crime and murder rates for 2023
Preliminary data indicated continued downward trends in violent crime categories
Trump made statement claiming crime rate lowest in 125 years
What This Means
Structured interpretation — not opinion
Key takeaway 1
Recent crime rate decreases represent significant improvements in public safety compared to the peak years of the 2010s and 2020s
Key takeaway 2
The specific claim of lowest rates since 1900 cannot be verified due to absence of comprehensive national data for the first three decades of that period
Key takeaway 3
Comparisons across different eras of crime reporting require consideration of methodology changes, participation rates, and data collection systems
Key takeaway 4
The claim accurately reflects that crime has decreased substantially in recent years but overstates the certainty of historical comparisons spanning 125 years
Related Claims in public_safety
“TSA workers are receiving $0 paychecks during the current government shutdown”
TSA workers are classified as essential personnel and continue working during government shutdowns without receiving paychecks until appropriations are restored. While they may receive pay stubs showing $0 for the current pay period, they are guaranteed back pay once the shutdown ends, making the characterization of '$0 paychecks' technically accurate for the shutdown period but incomplete without the context of guaranteed retroactive compensation.
“Two Pennsylvania teens from wealthy suburbs are suspects in an attempted ISIS-inspired attack outside NYC Mayor Zohran Mamadani's residence”
No evidence supports the existence of this claim. Zohran Mamdani is a New York State Assembly member, not NYC Mayor. No credible reports exist of an ISIS-inspired attack attempt involving Pennsylvania teens Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi at his residence. The claim appears to conflate or misrepresent actual events and positions.
“The Department of Homeland Security has been shut down, causing long lines at airports”
The Department of Homeland Security has experienced a shutdown or significant operational disruption in March 2026, leading to increased wait times at airports. However, the characterization of DHS being completely 'shut down' may oversimplify the situation, as essential security functions typically continue during federal agency funding lapses, though with reduced capacity.