Connecticut bomb threats/ political violence/ Sen. Chris Murphy/ Rep. Jahana Hayes/ FBI investigation/ threats against lawmakers/ Thanksgiving threats 2024/ WEST PALM BEACH/ Fla./ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Five Connecticut Democratic lawmakers, including Sen. Chris Murphy and Rep. Jahana Hayes, received bomb threats on Thanksgiving, prompting police and federal investigations. Authorities confirmed no explosives were found. The incidents coincide with similar threats against Trump Cabinet appointees, escalating concerns about political violence.
Connecticut Lawmakers Receive Bomb Threats: Quick Looks
- Targeted Lawmakers: Sen. Chris Murphy and Reps. Himes, Courtney, Larson, and Hayes reported threats.
- Thanksgiving Incidents: Threats were sent to the lawmakers’ homes on the holiday.
- Law Enforcement Response: No explosives were found; FBI is investigating.
- Connection to Political Violence: Follows similar threats against Trump appointees and past violent incidents.
- Statements from Lawmakers: Condemnations of political violence and gratitude for law enforcement’s swift action.
Bomb Threats Target Homes of Democratic Lawmakers on Holiday
Deep Look: Connecticut Lawmakers Targeted by Bomb Threats on Thanksgiving
On Thanksgiving Day, five Democratic lawmakers from Connecticut were the targets of bomb threats at their homes, intensifying concerns over the rise in politically motivated violence. Sen. Chris Murphy and Representatives Jim Himes, Joe Courtney, John Larson, and Jahana Hayes all reported receiving threats, which authorities determined to be unfounded after thorough investigations.
Bomb Threat Details and Responses
The incidents unfolded across multiple locations in Connecticut.
- Sen. Chris Murphy: His Hartford residence was the subject of a bomb threat. Local and U.S. Capitol Police found no evidence of explosives. Murphy’s office labeled the event as part of a “coordinated effort involving multiple public figures.”
- Rep. Jahana Hayes: The Wolcott Police Department received an email claiming a pipe bomb had been placed in her mailbox. Authorities, including state police and the U.S. Capitol Police, found no bomb at her residence.
- Rep. Joe Courtney: His Vernon home, where his wife and children were present, was also targeted. Police quickly responded, ensuring the family’s safety.
- Rep. Jim Himes: While celebrating Thanksgiving with his family, Himes was notified of a bomb threat against his home. Police from Greenwich, Stamford, and the Capitol responded. Himes expressed gratitude for their swift action, calling for peace and civility during the holiday season.
- Rep. John Larson: His East Hartford home received a similar bomb threat, prompting a police response.
FBI and Law Enforcement Involvement
The FBI confirmed it is investigating these threats in partnership with state and local authorities. However, no additional details about the perpetrators or motives have been disclosed. The coordinated nature of these incidents points to a deliberate effort to intimidate lawmakers.
Broader Context of Political Violence
The bomb threats come on the heels of similar threats and “swatting attacks” targeting prominent appointees of President-elect Donald Trump. Those targeted on Wednesday included Rep. Elise Stefanik, tapped for U.N. Ambassador, and Matt Gaetz, nominated for Attorney General. These incidents underscore an election season rife with politically charged violence:
- In July, a gunman opened fire at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania, injuring Trump and killing a supporter.
- Secret Service foiled an assassination attempt at Trump’s Florida golf course, spotting a weapon aimed at him.
Lawmakers Condemn Political Violence
Several Connecticut lawmakers issued statements decrying the threats and thanking law enforcement. Himes emphasized, “There is no place for political violence in this country,” while Hayes expressed relief that her family remained safe.
The incidents highlight a troubling trend of political aggression in the U.S., underscoring the need for heightened vigilance and bipartisan efforts to curb violence.
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