House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has spoken out against a series of threats targeting Democratic lawmakers, particularly those from Connecticut. The threats included incidents such as pipe bombs being placed in mailboxes and false police reports leading to SWAT team dispatches. All messages were signed with 'MAGA,' but no ordnance was found at the targeted lawmakers' homes.
Jeffries emphasized that threats of violence against elected officials are unacceptable and must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. He reassured that House Democrats will not be deterred from serving the people despite these threats and called for maximum protection for all Members and their families.
Following Jeffries' statement, Rep. Seth Magaziner from Rhode Island reported that his home was also targeted, but no harm was done. Sen. Christopher Murphy from Connecticut received a bomb threat, which seemed to be part of a coordinated effort targeting several Democrats from the state.
Rep. James Himes, a top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, stressed the importance of peace and civility during the holiday season in response to the threats. Other lawmakers, including Elise Stefanik, Matt Gaetz, Lee Zeldin, Lori Chavez-DeRemer, and Scott Turner, also reported threats against their homes.
The FBI acknowledged the numerous bomb threats and swatting incidents targeting incoming administration nominees and appointees. They are working with law enforcement partners to address these threats and urged the public to report any suspicious activities promptly.
