Several of President-elect Donald Trump’s Cabinet picks and team members faced bomb threats and fake emergency calls, known as “swatting,” on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. A spokesperson for Trump’s team called these incidents “violent, un-American threats” aimed at scaring the nominees and their families.
Swatting is when someone makes a fake call to the police, claiming there’s a dangerous situation, like a hostage crisis, to send SWAT teams rushing to a location. It’s a dangerous prank that can lead to real harm. Thankfully, law enforcement confirmed the threats weren’t credible. No bombs or actual threats were found, and some of the warnings came through social media.
The FBI is aware of these incidents and is working with police to investigate. They urged anyone who sees something suspicious to report it. Trump’s team thanked the police for their quick response, saying their actions helped keep everyone safe.
Who Was Targeted?
Several high-profile figures shared their experiences:
- Rep. Elise Stefanik: While driving home with her husband and young son, Stefanik was told about a bomb threat at their home. Police acted quickly to ensure their safety.
- Lee Zeldin: The former congressman received a pipe bomb threat with a pro-Palestinian message. His family wasn’t home, and police are investigating.
- Brooke Rollins: Rollins shared that her home was threatened, but police swiftly handled the situation, allowing her family to return home safely.
- Matt Gaetz: Gaetz’s Florida home was checked by a bomb squad after a threat. Nothing was found, but a family member was home during the scare.
- Pete Hegseth: Trump’s defense secretary pick said his family was also targeted with a pipe bomb threat. Police ensured their safety, and Hegseth stated he won’t back down.
Trump’s spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt, said these threats wouldn’t stop them from moving forward. “President Trump’s example shows us that we won’t be intimidated,” she said.
Political Leaders Respond
Both Democrats and Republicans condemned the threats:
- Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said, “Violence has no place in politics. Period.”
- Senator Tommy Tuberville called the threats “extremely dangerous and unacceptable,” adding prayers for everyone targeted.
Sadly, similar tactics have been used before against people connected to Trump, including judges and prosecutors handling cases involving him.
These incidents highlight the growing dangers of political intimidation. Thankfully, no one was harmed, and authorities are working to hold those responsible accountable.