Authorities responded to a pipe bomb threat at the home of Matt Gaetz, former Florida congressman and President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Attorney General, marking a troubling escalation of political intimidation. Law enforcement officials confirmed that Gaetz was not the only target; multiple nominees for Trump’s incoming Cabinet also received bomb or death threats, highlighting growing security concerns as the nation prepares for Trump’s second term.
According to Trump transition spokesperson Karoline Leavitt, the threats were issued on the eve of Thanksgiving and targeted figures including Pete Hegseth, nominated for Secretary of Veterans Affairs; John Ratcliffe, proposed for Secretary of Homeland Security; Elise Stefanik, nominated for Secretary of Education; and businessman Howard Lutnick, tapped for Secretary of Commerce. The threats were described as violent and un-American attempts to disrupt the transition.
A bomb-sniffing dog investigated Gaetz’s mailbox but found no immediate signs of explosives. However, a bomb squad was deployed to ensure the area’s safety. Reports indicate that a family member of Gaetz was also targeted, underscoring the personal nature of these threats.
NEWS: A bomb squad is responding to the Florida home of former GOP Rep. Matt Gaetz after he received a pipe bomb threat, I’m told.
After the sheriff was made aware of the threat, a bomb-sniffing dog was brought over to sniff the mail box, but it was inconclusive. So that’s why…
— Melanie Zanona (@MZanona) November 27, 2024
In New York, Elise Stefanik and her husband were alerted to a bomb threat at their home while traveling from Washington, D.C., to her upstate congressional district. Law enforcement responded promptly, and Stefanik’s office praised their professionalism. Meanwhile, businessman Howard Lutnick was reportedly targeted with similar threats.
Office of Chairwoman Stefanik released the following statement:
“This morning, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, her husband, and their three year old son were driving home to Saratoga County from Washington for Thanksgiving when they were informed of a bomb threat to their…
— Elise Stefanik (@EliseStefanik) November 27, 2024
In a particularly alarming case, former Congressman Lee Zeldin, a close ally of Trump, revealed that a pipe bomb threat had been directed at his home. The message accompanying the threat reportedly carried pro-Palestinian themes. Zeldin and his family were not home at the time and are safe, but the incident underscores the heightened risks facing public officials.
A pipe bomb threat targeting me and my family at our home today was sent in with a pro-Palestinian themed message. My family and I were not home at the time and are safe. We are working with law enforcement to learn more as this situation develops. We are thankful for the swift…
— Lee Zeldin (@LeeMZeldin) November 27, 2024
The FBI confirmed it is investigating the series of threats and working closely with law enforcement agencies. “We take all potential threats seriously,” an FBI spokesman stated, urging the public to report suspicious activity immediately.
These threats arrive amid escalating political tensions following Trump’s victory over Kamala Harris earlier this month. As Trump prepares to assume office, the incidents serve as a stark reminder of the dangerous climate surrounding American politics. Despite the attempts at intimidation, Leavitt reaffirmed the transition team’s commitment to their work, stating that “dangerous acts of intimidation and violence will not deter us.”
The safety of public officials and their families must remain a top priority as the nation grapples with an era of increasing political violence.
Leave a Comment