Several members of Donald Trump’s incoming administration have become targets of bomb threats and swatting incidents, according to information provided by the FBI. Swatting refers to prank calls designed to provoke an armed police response to a particular location, potentially putting the target in serious danger.
One prominent target of these threats is New York Republican Elise Stefanik, whom Trump has selected to be the next U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Stefanik’s family home was reportedly targeted, with the incident occurring while she was driving from Washington, D.C., to New York with her husband and young son for the Thanksgiving holiday. Her office confirmed that law enforcement had notified her of the bomb threat during their journey.
The FBI has indicated that they are aware of several incidents involving bomb threats and swatting directed at members of Trump’s cabinet nominees and appointees, although the agency has not disclosed any names. Karoline Leavitt, a spokesperson for Trump’s transition team, confirmed that multiple individuals had been targeted, noting that law enforcement acted swiftly to ensure the safety of those involved.
Further information has been provided by New York police, who confirmed that Howard Lutnick, Trump’s nominee for commerce secretary, also had his home targeted by a bomb threat. This information was relayed by CBS, the BBC’s U.S. partner. Additionally, Lee Zeldin, the incoming administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), confirmed that his home had been threatened with a “pipe bomb threat,” which he said included a “pro-Palestinian themed message.” In a statement, Zeldin expressed gratitude for the rapid response of local authorities, adding that his family was not at home during the incident and remained unharmed.
Florida Republican Matt Gaetz, who recently withdrew his candidacy for U.S. attorney general, was also among those targeted. Authorities in Florida’s Okaloosa County confirmed that a bomb threat had been made against an address in Niceville, where a family member of Gaetz currently resides. Officers searched the area, clearing the mailbox and finding no explosive devices.
According to Fox News, other individuals targeted by similar threats include John Ratcliffe, nominated to lead the CIA, and Pete Hegseth, tapped to be the next defense secretary. These incidents have underscored the risks faced by individuals nominated to high-profile positions in the incoming Trump administration, as law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the threats and safeguard those affected.
The incidents took place on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, and investigations are ongoing. Though the authorities have not revealed many specifics, the threats are reportedly being treated with utmost seriousness, as the appointees prepare to assume their roles within the federal government.