Authorities responded to the home of Matt Gaetz, the former Florida congressman and recent nominee for Attorney General in President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming administration, after reports of a pipe bomb threat.
The Trump transition team confirmed that several individuals, including Pete Hegseth (nominated for Secretary of Veterans Affairs), John Ratcliffe (proposed for Secretary of Homeland Security), and Elise Stefanik (nominated for Secretary of Education), were also targeted with bomb or death threats. Businessman Howard Lutnick, tapped to serve as Secretary of Commerce, was among those named.
Melanie Zanona from Punchbowl News reported on social media that a bomb-sniffing dog initially investigated Gaetz’s mailbox but could not confirm the presence of explosives. As a result, a bomb squad was dispatched to the property to ensure the area’s safety.
A family member of Gaetz was also targeted, according to law enforcement officials. The threats were issued on the eve of Thanksgiving, a time when cabinet members would typically be at home with their families.
Gaetz, known for his staunch support of Trump and fiery rhetoric during his time in Congress, has long been a polarizing figure. His nomination for Attorney General drew praise from conservatives and criticism from the left,