President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team is grappling with a wave of threats targeting his Cabinet nominees and appointees.
Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s incoming White House press secretary, revealed on social media that several individuals chosen for key roles in the upcoming administration, as well as their families, have been subjected to alarming acts of intimidation, including bomb threats and “swatting” incidents.
“Last night and this morning, several of President Trump’s Cabinet nominees and administration appointees were targeted in violent, un-American threats to their lives and those who live with them,” Leavitt announced on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday.
According to an official statement, one incident involved a pipe bomb threat accompanied by a message with pro-Palestinian themes. Fox News reported the details, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
Leavitt expressed gratitude for the swift response of law enforcement, saying, “President Trump and the entire Transition team are grateful for their swift action.”
The threats against Trump’s team follow a series of alarming incidents during his campaign to reclaim the White House.
Trump has often accused Democrats and mainstream media of fueling dangerous rhetoric against him, which he believes has contributed to attempts on his life and other forms of intimidation.
BREAKING: President Trump’s Cabinet nominees & their family members are being threatened. “These attacks ranged from bomb threats to swatting.”
Praying for their safety! This does NOT surprise me at all!😡👇 pic.twitter.com/Q9bTe6HW1q
— Michelle #AmericaFirst (@MichelleRM68) November 27, 2024
Since his victory, Trump has focused on building his Cabinet for the 2025 administration, a process that has sparked fierce criticism from liberal circles.
Social media platforms have been inundated with outrage, with many sharing emotional responses and criticizing Trump’s decisions.
Trump’s choice of nominees has been a flashpoint for backlash. Among the most divisive is Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a former Democrat and presidential candidate, nominated for Secretary of Health and Human Services.
Critics argue that Kennedy, known for his skepticism of vaccines, could implement policies restricting vaccines and dietary choices in the name of “Making America Healthy Again.”
Another contentious nominee is Pete Hegseth, a Fox News co-host chosen for Secretary of Defense. Hegseth has been accused of sexual assault, an allegation that has drawn significant attention and criticism from both media and political opponents.
Additionally, Hegseth’s views and professional background have been scrutinized, intensifying the opposition to his nomination.
Despite these threats and criticisms, Leavitt emphasized that the Trump administration remains committed to its mission.
“President Trump and the Transition are focused on doing the work of uniting our nation by ensuring a safe and prosperous future,” she stated. “With President Trump as our example, dangerous acts of intimidation and violence will not deter us.”
As Trump’s team continues its work, the challenges ahead underscore the highly polarized political landscape and the intense scrutiny surrounding his administration’s plans and personnel.