Five Democratic U.S. lawmakers from Connecticut reported being targeted by bomb threats at their homes on Thanksgiving Day. While no explosive devices were found, the threats have sparked widespread concern about political intimidation, according to statements from the lawmakers and local media.
U.S. Representatives Jim Himes, Jahana Hayes, John Larson, and Joe Courtney issued statements confirming the threats. Hayes disclosed that police had received an email on Thanksgiving morning claiming a pipe bomb had been placed in the mailbox at her home. “No bombs or explosives were found, and the investigation is ongoing,” Hayes said.
“There is no place for political violence in this country, and I hope that we may all continue through the holiday season with peace and civility,” Himes said in his statement.
Local media also reported that U.S. Senator Chris Murphy, a Connecticut Democrat, was among those targeted. The U.S. Capitol Police have not yet commented on the incidents.
The threats against the lawmakers occurred during a week in which several prominent figures, including members of former President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team, were similarly targeted by bomb threats and "swatting" incidents.
Swatting involves making false emergency reports to provoke a heavy, armed police response at someone’s residence. Law enforcement experts view it as a form of harassment aimed at intimidating public figures. A spokesperson for Trump’s transition team confirmed that threats had been made on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning.
Authorities have not disclosed details about the source of the threats or whether the incidents are connected, but investigations remain active.
