Violent threats against Trump’s Cabinet picks expose dangerous political divide in America.
At a Glance
- Multiple Trump Cabinet nominees and appointees targeted with bomb threats and swatting attacks
- FBI investigating threats as violent and un-American
- Targets include Rep. Elise Stefanik, Matt Gaetz, and former Rep. Lee Zeldin
- President Biden briefed and monitoring situation, condemning political violence
- Republican leaders denounce threats as dangerous and unhinged
Wave of Threats Targets Trump Administration Picks
In a disturbing escalation of political tensions, several of President Trump’s Cabinet nominees and Administration appointees have become targets of violent, un-American threats. The FBI is actively investigating the incidents, which include bomb threats and swatting attacks.
The targets of these threats include high-profile Republican figures such as New York Rep. Elise Stefanik, Matt Gaetz, and former New York congressman Lee Zeldin. Law enforcement has responded swiftly to ensure the safety of those targeted, but experts say the pattern of threats highlights a dangerous trend in American politics.
BREAKING: Trump Picks Targeted In ‘Violent, UnAmerican Threats’ https://t.co/n4eg2DhffR
— Daily Wire (@realDailyWire) November 27, 2024
Specific Incidents and Government Response
The severity of these threats is evident in the specific incidents reported. Rep. Stefanik’s residence was subject to a bomb threat, while former Rep. Zeldin’s home faced a pipe bomb threat. Even Matt Gaetz’s supposed mailbox was targeted, though no devices were found. These incidents follow a campaign season already marred by violence, including assassination attempts on Trump himself.
The White House confirmed that President Joe Biden has been briefed and is monitoring the situation closely. The administration has unequivocally condemned threats of political violence, regardless of the target. Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson has also spoken out, labeling the threats as dangerous and unhinged.
Broader Implications for Political Discourse
These incidents are not isolated. Public figures have increasingly become targets of hoax bomb threats and swatting incidents, signaling a troubling trend in our political landscape. The U.S. Capitol Police are working diligently with local and federal partners to address these threats, but the root cause goes beyond law enforcement capabilities.
“We take all potential threats seriously, and as always, encourage members of the public to immediately report anything they consider suspicious to law enforcement,” said a statement from the FBI.
The list of targeted individuals extends beyond high-profile politicians. Brooke Rollins, Trump’s Agriculture Department pick, reported a threat against her home. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer faced a pipe bomb threat at her Oregon residence. Scott Turner, nominee for HUD, received a bomb threat. Other nominees, including Pete Hegseth, John Ratcliffe, and Howard Lutnick, have also been subjected to threats.
