House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries Condemns Threats Against Democrats
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries condemned several threats made against members of his caucus, mostly targeting lawmakers from Connecticut, just days after numerous threats were made against President-elect Trump’s Cabinet selections. The threats ranged from pipe bombs in mailboxes to “swatting,” or filing a false police report on another person’s behalf that often results in a SWAT team being dispatched.
All of the threatening messages were signed “MAGA,” and law enforcement found no ordnance at any of the targeted lawmakers’ homes. Jeffries said that America is a democracy and that threats of violence against elected officials are unacceptable, unconscionable, and have no place in a civilized society.
The targeted lawmakers included Rep. Seth Magaziner, Sen. Christopher Murphy, and five other Democrats from Connecticut. Rep. James Himes, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, said that there is no place for political violence in this country and that he hopes the holiday season will be marked by peace and civility.
The FBI is aware of the threats and is working with law enforcement partners to investigate. The agency encourages the public to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
In related news, President Biden told reporters that his administration is working hard with the FBI on the threats to lawmakers and Trump nominees.