Several individuals nominated by President-elect Trump for cabinet positions and other administrative roles faced serious threats Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, triggering a swift response from law enforcement. These threats, described as "violent and un-American," included bomb threats and swatting incidents, according to incoming White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Among those targeted were reported nominees for key positions, including CIA Director, Secretary of Defense, and UN Ambassador. Brooke Rollins, nominated for Secretary of Agriculture, and Lee Zeldin, nominated for EPA Administrator, also publicly disclosed threats against them. Zeldin specified that the threat against him involved a pipe bomb and included a pro-Palestinian message. He and his family were thankfully not home at the time.
Law enforcement agencies, including local police, the FBI, and in some cases, U.S. Capitol Police, responded rapidly to ensure the safety of those threatened. The FBI confirmed its awareness of the incidents and emphasized its commitment to investigating all potential threats. New York State Police, for instance, conducted a thorough sweep of Rep. Elise Stefanik's home, finding no explosive devices.
Several nominees took to social media to share their experiences and express gratitude for law enforcement's prompt action. Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host and nominee for Secretary of Defense, recounted a credible pipe bomb threat against his family. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer, nominated for Labor Secretary, also reported a pipe bomb threat against her Oregon home. Scott Turner, nominated to lead HUD, confirmed he too was a target. A threat was also made against a family member of Matt Gaetz, though it is unclear if this incident is connected to the others.
The White House released a statement condemning the threats and confirming that President Biden has been briefed. They stated that federal law enforcement, in coordination with state and local authorities, is actively monitoring and responding to the situation.
Incoming border czar Tom Homan revealed in an interview with Fox News that he is now taking threats more seriously following these incidents. These threats come after two assassination attempts against President-elect Trump earlier this year.
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