The FBI reported Wednesday that several members of Donald Trump’s incoming administration have been subjected to threats, including bomb alerts, with one nominee receiving a pipe-bomb threat accompanied by a pro-Palestinian message.
“The FBI is aware of numerous bomb threats and swatting incidents targeting incoming administration nominees and appointees, and we are working with our law enforcement partners,” the agency stated. Swatting refers to the practice of making false emergency calls to provoke a heavy police response to a specific location. This form of harassment has become increasingly common in the United States, often targeting high-profile political figures.
Karoline Leavitt, a spokeswoman for Trump’s transition team, described the threats as “violent, un-American” acts aimed at appointees, nominees, and their families. Among those targeted was Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, Trump’s pick for UN ambassador, who said her New York residence received a bomb threat. Stefanik noted she, her husband, and their young son were traveling home from Washington for Thanksgiving when they were informed of the incident.
Lee Zeldin, Trump’s nominee to lead the Environmental Protection Agency, revealed that his home was the target of a pipe-bomb threat featuring a “pro-Palestinian-themed message.” Zeldin, a former New York congressman, confirmed his family was not at home when the threat was made.
Fox News Digital reported, citing anonymous sources, that John Ratcliffe, nominated to lead the CIA, and Pete Hegseth, the defense secretary pick, were also among those targeted.
Trump, who has quickly assembled a cabinet of loyalists despite criticism of some nominees’ lack of experience, has faced heightened security concerns. In July, he survived an assassination attempt during a campaign rally, suffering a minor injury to his ear as the assailant was killed by counter-fire. In September, another individual was arrested for allegedly planning to attack Trump while he played golf at his West Palm Beach course.
As Trump prepares to return to the White House, the threats underscore the volatile and polarized political climate surrounding his administration.
