Connecticut Democratic Lawmakers Receive Thanksgiving Bomb Threats Targeting Their Homes

At Least Five Connecticut Democratic Lawmakers Targeted by Thanksgiving Bomb Threats

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — On Thursday, at least five Democratic members of Congress from Connecticut were targeted by bomb threats at their homes, according to statements from the lawmakers or their offices.

The affected lawmakers include Sen. Chris Murphy and Reps. Jim Himes, Joe Courtney, John Larson, and Jahana Hayes. Law enforcement officials who responded to the threats reported finding no evidence of explosives at any of the properties. It remains unclear whether Rep. Rosa DeLauro, Connecticut's fifth Democratic House member, or the state’s other Democratic senator, also received similar threats.

The incidents appear to be part of a broader pattern of threats against public figures. They occurred a day after several prominent appointees and allies of President-elect Donald Trump reported receiving bomb threats and “swatting” attacks, where false emergencies are used to provoke a heavy police response.

Sen. Murphy's Hartford home was one of the targeted locations. His office described the threat as “part of a coordinated effort involving multiple members of Congress and public figures.” Law enforcement, including Hartford Police and U.S. Capitol Police, determined the threat was unfounded.

Rep. Hayes revealed that police in Wolcott received an email threatening that a pipe bomb had been placed in her mailbox. Following inspections by local, state, and Capitol police, no explosive materials were found. Similarly, Rep. Courtney's Vernon home received a threat while his family was present, though no explosives were discovered.

Rep. Himes was informed of the threat against his home during Thanksgiving celebrations. He expressed gratitude to local law enforcement for their swift action and emphasized, “There is no place for political violence in this country.” East Hartford Police also responded to a similar threat at Rep. Larson’s home.

These incidents follow an election season marked by violence. In July, a gunman at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, grazed the former president in the ear and fatally shot one of his supporters. Later, the Secret Service prevented another assassination attempt at Trump’s West Palm Beach golf course after spotting a gun barrel through a fence.

The recent threats targeted several Trump appointees, including Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump’s pick for U.N. ambassador; Rep. Matt Gaetz, his initial choice for attorney general; Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer, nominated for Labor Secretary; and former Rep. Lee Zeldin, chosen to lead the EPA. These incidents underscore the growing risks faced by public officials in a politically charged climate.