Attack on Pelosi’s husband heightens fears of increasing US political violence

Hammer assault on Paul Pelosi is latest in series of violent and threatening acts as midterm elections loom

The bloody hammer attack on Paul Pelosi, husband of the House speaker, Nancy Pelosi, has sparked increased fears over political violence in America just weeks before the country's crucial midterm elections.

The assault - by someone who reportedly entered the Democratic leader's home specifically in search of her - comes amid an alarming rise in violent rhetoric and threats targeting US lawmakers.