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Fact Brief

Is democratic socialism the same as communism?

Is democratic socialism the same as communism?

No. Democratic socialism is not the same as communism. Both stem from socialist theory but differ in their goals and methods. Democratic socialism combines political democracy with public, cooperative or state ownership of key industries while maintaining elections, civil liberties and pluralism. It seeks to reduce inequality and ensure that

Can undocumented immigrants receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in the U.S.?

Can undocumented immigrants receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in the U.S.?

No. Undocumented immigrants are generally ineligible for SNAP benefits. Federal rule limits SNAP eligibility to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals or “qualified aliens” with specified immigration statuses and often a five-year waiting period. A person without legal status cannot receive SNAP benefits, but households with mixed-status members may still

Has violent crime trended downward in North Dakota over the last decade?

Has violent crime trended downward in North Dakota over the last decade?

No. Violent crime in North Dakota has increased slightly over the past decade, according to FBI Crime Data Explorer statistics. In 2015, the state’s violent crime rate was 1,934 incidents per 100,000 people. By 2024, it had risen to 2,046 per 100,000, an increase of

Did Argentina’s temporary suspension of taxes on agricultural exports have an effect on U.S. farmers?

Did Argentina’s temporary suspension of taxes on agricultural exports have an effect on U.S. farmers?

Yes. Argentina’s temporary suspension of export taxes in September 2025 briefly increased competition for U.S. farmers, especially in the soybean market. The measure removed export duties on soybeans, corn, wheat, and beef until a $7 billion sales limit was reached. Within days, Argentine exporters filled that quota, prompting

Has the median age of a homebuyer in the US increased from 31 to 56 in the past few decades?

Has the median age of a homebuyer in the US increased from 31 to 56 in the past few decades?

Yes. According to Apollo Global Management, the median age of a homebuyer was 56 in 2024, against 31 in 1981. In the past few decades, the median price of a house has risen faster than the median household income, though both rose faster than inflation for the overall economy. In

Does North Dakota lead the nation in low voter turnout?

Does North Dakota lead the nation in low voter turnout?

No. While North Dakota’s voter turnout is often below the national average, it does not rank lowest in the country. In the 2022 midterm election, turnout in North Dakota was 41.7 percent compared to a national average of 46.2 percent. In the 2024 presidential election, 63.1

Are peer-to-peer gun sales legal in North Dakota?

Are peer-to-peer gun sales legal in North Dakota?

Yes. Private, or peer-to-peer, gun sales are legal in North Dakota. The state does not require background checks, permits, or waiting periods for private transfers between individuals who are North Dakota residents, as long as both parties are legally allowed to own firearms. Federal law prohibits sales to certain groups,