At what point does thinking about killing the president become illegal in America?

Question

At what point do you personally think it becomes illegal. I already know the answers to the question, I am more interested to know what people *think* the answer is than the true answer. Which of the following do you think are illegal acts: 
1. Wishing the president were dead
2. Contemplating killing the president, but not making any plans.
3. Talking to others about how you wish the president were dead
4. Talking about people who want to kill the president, without ever saying you are one of those people. 
5. Trying to convince others to BELIEVE in the concept of killing the president, without trying to convince them to actually do it. 
6. Trying to convince others to kill the president.
7. Planning to kill the president, but never following through on it because he never comes to your state. 
8. Pointing a gun at the president from a secret location, but never shooting
9. Making a voodoo doll and killing the doll, or other kinds of magic to kill the president.

yearning_nomadic_spirit · Accepted Answer

4. Talking about people who want to kill the president, without ever saying you are one of those people. (this will get you questioned)
5. Trying to convince others to BELIEVE in the concept of killing the president, without trying to convince them to actually do it. (this will get you questioned)
6. Trying to convince others to kill the president. (this is solicitation or conspiracy and a crime)
7. Planning to kill the president, but never following through on it because he never comes to your state.  (if you only plan it in your head, no crime.  But if you committed any acts like buyin a gun, writing down the plans, then it is attempt)
8. Pointing a gun at the president from a secret location, but never shooting (attempt)

Mariposa · Answer

5

Anonymous · Answer

Even wishing he were dead is apparently enough.  A friend of mine was just talking crap one day about how the President should be shot (Clinton) and someone overheard this and actually went so far as to call the SS.  The Secret Service showed up at his home 2 days later and questioned him.  After concluding he was no threat they left and that was that.  We've never let him live that one down!

trash1ey · Answer

7. Planning to kill the president, but never following through on it because he never comes to your state. 

Just my guess.

Ellen J · Answer

Have you considered the fact that, supposedly, every computer message is recorded somewhere in England and checked for key words which indicate terrorist threats or threats against government officials (such as the President)?   
Good luck!  I hope you find your accommodations at Leavenworth comfortable!

deputeesteph33 · Answer

I believe that at 5 it becomes a crime, merely thinking about something or even wishing it with no action whatsoever is not a crime, but the second you do something or attempt to convince someone else (even though you fail) to do it becomes a crime.

scummibear · Answer

I think posting anything that hints that you might be maybe considering it will get you a visit from your friendly neighborhood Secret Servive Person...

If I were you I wouldn't answer the door for a few weeks or go out...

Anonymous · Answer

At least #7. If authorities find your so-called plan, then they probably would have the right to arrest you. Number eight would get you in trouble, too. I think all the others, you have the right to do.

Avatar13 · Answer

5 to 8 but I find this a weird question
Do you want to kill the President? Call me at my secret number, we will discuss this further in detail

Anonymous · Answer

I think it is illegal just bringing this up. What the he_ll is the matter with you? Grow up.

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At what point does thinking about killing the president become illegal in America?

16 Answers