Several Cabinet nominees and appointees of President-elect Donald Trump faced bomb threats and “swatting” incidents on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, according to a spokesperson for the Trump transition team. Transition spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt condemned these threats as violent and un-American, highlighting that they included bomb threats and swatting—an act of fraud where emergency services are deceived into responding to fake dangerous situations.
Reports from senior law enforcement officials indicated that the threats posed were deemed not credible, with no explosives or actual dangers discovered. Some of the threats were reportedly communicated via social media. Notably, these incidents did not involve individuals under U.S. Secret Service protection, including Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance.
The FBI acknowledged the situation, affirming they are collaborating with law enforcement to address the potential threats, and encouraged the public to report suspicious activity. The Trump transition team expressed gratitude for the rapid response by law enforcement in ensuring the safety of targeted individuals.
Among those reportedly targeted were Rep. Elise Stefanik, former Rep. Lee Zeldin, Brooke Rollins, and former Rep. Matt Gaetz, all of whom confirmed receiving threats. Stefanik’s office announced that law enforcement responded to a bomb threat at her residence while she was with her family. Zeldin mentioned that a pipe bomb threat containing a pro-Palestinian message was sent to his home, although his family was safe at the time. Rollins and Gaetz also confirmed that threats were aimed at their homes, leading to police investigations, which ultimately revealed no explosive devices.
Pete Hegseth, Trump’s nominee for defense secretary, shared that he too received a bomb threat but confirmed the safety of his family. He reinforced that he would not be intimidated and expressed his commitment to serve in the administration.
Such tactics of intimidation have previously been directed at Trump opponents. Political leaders from both parties, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sen. Tommy Tuberville, condemned the threats, emphasizing that violence has no place in political discourse. They stressed the need for accountability for those responsible.
As troubling as this situation is, it signals a collective recognition of the need for safety and civility in political processes. Often, political rivalry can polarize opinions, but incidents like these create an opportunity for unity among diverse political perspectives, surrounding the shared value of protecting individuals from violence and intimidation.
In summary, the threats against Trump’s nominees have spurred condemnation from both parties, highlighting a shared commitment to security and respect in political dialogue.