Dem leader condemns Thanksgiving bomb threats against liberal lawmakers after Team Trump targeted
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has strongly condemned a series of threats targeting members of his caucus, particularly lawmakers from Connecticut. This comes just days after numerous threats were made against President-elect Trump’s cabinet selections.
Jeffries, a Democrat from New York, confirmed in a statement on Friday that several Democrats had been targeted with threats, ranging from pipe bombs in their mailboxes to a dangerous tactic known as “swatting.” Swatting involves filing a false police report on another person’s behalf, often resulting in a SWAT team being dispatched to their home. Fortunately, law enforcement found no explosives at any of the targeted lawmakers’ residences.
In response to these threats, Jeffries emphasized that violence against elected officials is unacceptable and has no place in a civilized society. He called for the perpetrators of such acts to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, emphasizing that threats of violence have no place in a democracy.
“House Democrats will not be deterred or intimidated from serving the people by violent threats,” Jeffries stated. He also stressed the importance of providing maximum protection for all members of Congress and their families moving forward.
Following Jeffries’ statement, Representative Seth Magaziner from Rhode Island revealed that his home had also been targeted. Fortunately, the Providence police responded swiftly, and no harm was done. Senator Christopher Murphy of Connecticut was also targeted with a bomb threat, which appeared to be part of a coordinated effort.
In addition to Murphy, five other Democrats from Connecticut received similar threats, including Representatives Joe Courtney, John Larson, Rosa DeLauro, Jahana Hayes, and James Himes. Congressman Himes, who serves as the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, emphasized the need for peace and civility during the holiday season.
Prior to these threats, several of President-elect Trump’s cabinet selections, including Representative Elise Stefanik, former Representative Matt Gaetz, and former Representative Lee Zeldin, were also targeted with threats. The FBI has acknowledged the seriousness of these threats and is working with law enforcement partners to address the situation.
In conclusion, threats of violence against elected officials are a serious matter that must be addressed swiftly and decisively. It is essential to uphold the principles of democracy and ensure the safety and security of all individuals in public service. Peace and civility must prevail, even in the face of adversity.
