What is swatting? Several Trump cabinent nominees have been targeted
Attacks on Trump’s most prominent cabinet picks ranged from bomb threats to swatting. Law enforcement officials are currently investigating these events.
The nominees that have been targeted are Lee Zeldin, who has been nominated to lead the Environmental Protection Agency. Matt Gaetz, who had been Trump’s first pick to serve as Attorney General, but had to step down due to increasing pressure by Democrats and fellow Republicans regarding sexual misconduct charges. Elise Stefanik, who was chosen by Trump to serve as the next ambassador to the U.N. was also targeted.
FBI Statement Regarding Threats to Nominees and Appointees https://t.co/PNbmuHjrrl pic.twitter.com/tenOKMeupW
— FBI (@FBI) November 27, 2024
“A pipe bomb threat targeting me and my family at our home today was sent in with a pro-Palestinian themed message,” Zeldin said in a statement on Twitter. “My family and I were not home at the time and are safe. We are working with law enforcement to learn more as this situation develops.”
A pipe bomb threat targeting me and my family at our home today was sent in with a pro-Palestinian themed message. My family and I were not home at the time and are safe. We are working with law enforcement to learn more as this situation develops. We are thankful for the swift…
— Lee Zeldin (@leezeldin) November 27, 2024
What is Swatting?
Swatting involves making a false report to emergency services, often claiming a serious crime, to prompt a heavy police response at the target’s home. These false 911 calls cause the police to be dispatched to the victim’s home, thus producing a potentially dangerous situation.
Trump’s nominees are not the first to be targeted by swatting. Stars like Jennifer Anniston, Justin Bieber, Rihanna, and Nicki Minaj have also experienced unexpected visits from authorities due to similar hoaxes.
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