Several of President-elect Donald Trump’s cabinet picks were subjected to life-threatening ordeals involving bomb threats and 'swatting' attacks on the eve of Thanksgiving, prompting a swift law enforcement response.
Breitbart reported that multiple threats targeted President-elect Trump’s cabinet nominees, sparking immediate action from law enforcement agencies to protect the individuals involved.
These threats began on the night of November 26th, extending into the morning of November 27th.
President-elect Trump's transition had barely reached its critical phase when this alarming wave of threats emerged. A spokesperson for the transition team shared that almost a dozen cabinet picks faced these dangerous situations, adding a grim note to the Thanksgiving celebrations.
The type of threats ranged from sophisticated 'swatting' incidents—false alarms intended to draw large police responses—to explicit bomb threats affecting the nominees' personal residences.
Karoline Leavitt, the incoming White House Press Secretary, detailed the nature and scope of these threats, underscoring the challenges these actions posed not only to the individuals but also to the broader sense of national security.
Key briefed members included Rep. Elise Stefanik, who was nominated as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Stefanik was traveling when informed of a bomb threat at her residence.
Local and state law enforcement, along with the U.S. Capitol Police, coordinated a rapid response, ensuring the safety of her home as Stefanik and her family made their way back for the holiday.
Stefanik's office released a statement highlighting the efficient work of law enforcement officials and expressing gratitude towards the officers who work tirelessly during the holiday seasons.
"We are incredibly appreciative of the extraordinary dedication of law enforcement officers who keep our communities safe 24/7," the statement read, reflecting relief and acknowledgment of the skilled response safeguarding their Thanksgiving plans.
The threats also reached other Trump cabinet nominees, including former Rep. Lee Zeldin, nominated to head the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Zeldin received a pipe bomb threat accompanied by a pro-Palestinian message when his family was out. His statement on social media thanked local authorities for their immediate and effective handling of the situation, emphasizing the ongoing investigation to understand more about the incident's context.
Further compounding the situation, former Rep. Matt Gaetz, although he had recently withdrawn his nomination for attorney general, witnessed a similar threat.
A bomb threat led to the deployment of a bomb squad at his residence in Florida. Initial investigation was inconclusive, prompting even more comprehensive checks to ensure there was no danger posed to Gaetz or his neighbors.
The surge in threats has not been isolated. Just earlier, two assassination attempts against Donald Trump had been reported, including one in Butler, Pennsylvania, hinting at a disturbing trend targeting political figures.
The transition team has been forthright in condemning these actions, emphasizing the need for unity and reassurance from law enforcement that such intimidation tactics will be decisively handled.
Karoline Leavitt conveyed the transition team's determination to press forward despite these threats, drawing from Trump's leadership to navigate through this tumultuous period. "With President Trump as our example, dangerous acts of intimidation and violence will not deter us," she declared, painting a picture of resilience amidst adversity.
Donald Trump Jr. also voiced his frustration over these events on social media, exhorting an end to what he described as "deranged" actions from the violent left, underscoring the polarized reaction within political circles regarding these threats.
As this complex situation unfolds, it remains critical for law enforcement to stay ahead of any further threats while maintaining public safety.
The community's response to these threats illustrates both the challenges and the crucial cooperation needed between government officials and law enforcement to navigate these perilous incidents.