Several of President-elect Donald Trump’s planned Cabinet nominees and administration appointees were targeted with bomb threats and “swatting” attacks, which are hoax calls meant to draw law enforcement to a location. The threats were not deemed credible, and no devices or physical threats were found. Those targeted included Rep. Elise Stefanik, former Rep. Lee Zeldin, Brooke Rollins, and former Rep. Matt Gaetz. Stefanik, Zeldin, and Rollins all confirmed threats against them, with law enforcement responding quickly to ensure their safety. Gaetz, who was not home at the time of the threat, also had authorities respond to his residence. The Trump transition team expressed gratitude for the swift actions taken by law enforcement to ensure the safety of those targeted. The FBI is aware of the incidents and is working with law enforcement partners to address them. Transition spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt emphasized that these threats would not slow them down and that they will continue with their work. Similar tactics have been used in the past against individuals viewed as Trump adversaries. The threats come amidst heightened tensions following the events at the U.S. Capitol earlier in the month, and serve as a reminder of the potential dangers faced by public officials and their families.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com