The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced that several of President-elect Donald Trump’s nominees and appointees have been targeted with bomb threats, including a pipe bomb scare reportedly accompanied by a pro-Palestinian message.
Among those threatened were Elise Stefanik, Trump’s pick for UN ambassador, and Lee Zeldin, nominated to lead the Environmental Protection Agency. Both reported bomb scares at their homes. Stefanik said her family was en route to New York for Thanksgiving when they were informed of the threat. Zeldin revealed that the pipe bomb was sent with a message referencing pro-Palestinian sentiments.
Other targets included Scott Turner, nominated as Housing Secretary, and Pete Hegseth, Trump’s nominee for Defence Secretary.
The FBI confirmed its awareness of the threats, including instances of “swatting,” where false emergency calls are made to prompt armed police responses. Outgoing President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation and condemned the threats.
Trump’s team, led by spokesperson Karoline Leavitt, denounced the threats as violent, un-American acts. Leavitt affirmed that such intimidation would not deter the administration’s plans.
These threats come as Trump prepares to return to office in January, following incidents of violence against him, including a foiled golf course attack and a campaign rally assassination attempt in July, during which Trump was injured.
Trump’s rapid assembly of a cabinet dominated by loyalists has drawn criticism for lack of experience among appointees. The threats highlight the volatile environment surrounding his presidency and the broader risks faced by political figures in the United States.
