In a wave of threatening actions against cabinet nominees, the FBI has confirmed that several individuals associated with Donald Trump's incoming administration have received bomb threats, along with swatting incidents, where false calls prompt police involvement. The cases highlight growing tensions surrounding Trump's nominees, raising concerns about safety and the implications for political discourse.
Bomb Threats Target Trump Cabinet Nominees: FBI Investigation Underway
Bomb Threats Target Trump Cabinet Nominees: FBI Investigation Underway
Multiple bomb threats have been reported against individuals nominated for Donald Trump's cabinet as the FBI investigates the incidents.
New York Republican Elise Stefanik, designated to be the US ambassador to the United Nations, was the first confirmed victim of a bomb threat directed at her family home. Reports indicate these threats occurred over the night between Tuesday and Wednesday, leading to police investigations. Karoline Leavitt, spokesperson for Trump's transition team, stated that various nominees had been targeted and emphasized law enforcement's prompt actions to protect them.
Stefanik was reportedly alerted about the threat while driving home with her family for the Thanksgiving holiday. The situation escalated further when New York police confirmed that Howard Lutnick, Trump's nominee for commerce secretary, was also a target. Lee Zeldin, nominated to lead the Environmental Protection Agency, disclosed that his residence received a “pipe bomb threat”, accompanied by a pro-Palestinian message. He expressed relief that his family was not present when the threat was made.
In Florida, Congressman Matt Gaetz was also a victim of harassment, receiving threats attributed to his previous residence, now occupied by family members. Local sheriff's officials confirmed the bomb threat investigation was handled without finding any explosives. Additionally, other nominees, including John Ratcliffe for CIA director and Pete Hegseth for secretary of defense, were noted to be added to this growing list of targeted individuals.
The series of threats raises serious questions about safety in public service and underscores the rising hostility often faced by political figures. As investigations continue, the implications for political conduct and public safety remain a critical area of concern.
Stefanik was reportedly alerted about the threat while driving home with her family for the Thanksgiving holiday. The situation escalated further when New York police confirmed that Howard Lutnick, Trump's nominee for commerce secretary, was also a target. Lee Zeldin, nominated to lead the Environmental Protection Agency, disclosed that his residence received a “pipe bomb threat”, accompanied by a pro-Palestinian message. He expressed relief that his family was not present when the threat was made.
In Florida, Congressman Matt Gaetz was also a victim of harassment, receiving threats attributed to his previous residence, now occupied by family members. Local sheriff's officials confirmed the bomb threat investigation was handled without finding any explosives. Additionally, other nominees, including John Ratcliffe for CIA director and Pete Hegseth for secretary of defense, were noted to be added to this growing list of targeted individuals.
The series of threats raises serious questions about safety in public service and underscores the rising hostility often faced by political figures. As investigations continue, the implications for political conduct and public safety remain a critical area of concern.