Political Conference Evacuated Due To Death Threat Against Speakers

Donald Trump Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump waves during halftime of an NCAA college football game between South Carolina and Clemson, Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, in

A political conference in Washington, DC, known as the Principles First Summit, was evacuated on Sunday following a death threat against several speakers critical of former President Donald Trump. The threat, received via email, mentioned high-profile figures such as former national security adviser John Bolton and former US Capitol Police officer Michael Fanone.

The email claimed that pipe bombs had been planted at the JW Marriott hotel in DC, where the conference was being held, as well as inside Bolton's mailbox in Maryland. Organizers promptly alerted security and the Metropolitan Police Department, leading to the evacuation of the conference floor.

Fortunately, subsequent investigations revealed that the threat was unfounded, and the incident was resolved without any harm. The Montgomery County Police also responded to the reported bomb threat at Bolton's residence, which turned out to be false.

The email, sent from an untraceable address, referenced the recent release of J6 hostages. Despite the unsettling nature of the threat, Principles First founder Heath Mayo emphasized that they would not be intimidated and would continue with the conference.

Threat mentioned John Bolton and Michael Fanone, claiming pipe bombs at JW Marriott and Bolton's mailbox.

Principles First Summit evacuated in DC due to death threat against speakers critical of Trump.

Email threat was unfounded, no harm occurred, and Montgomery County Police confirmed false bomb threat.

The Principles First Summit positions itself as an alternative to the more Trump-aligned Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). The event also saw increased security measures following an incident involving Enrique Tarrio, a former Proud Boys leader recently pardoned by Trump.

Tarrio's presence at the conference led to a confrontation with Fanone and former US Capitol Police Sgt. Harry Dunn, both of whom had defended the Capitol during the January 6 attack. Fanone, who has been vocal about the threats he faces, expressed concerns about the impact of Trump's pardons on individuals like Tarrio.

Despite the tensions, the Principles First Summit continued its proceedings, underscoring its commitment to free expression and political discourse. The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing divisions and security challenges in the United States political landscape.