At least six Democratic members of Congress from Connecticut were targeted by bomb threats at their homes on Thursday, officials confirmed. The affected lawmakers included Senator Chris Murphy and five House Representatives: Jim Himes, Joe Courtney, John Larson, Jahana Hayes, and Rosa DeLauro. Police who responded to the threats reported no evidence of explosives at any of the properties.
The threats came a day after several high-profile individuals linked to President-elect Donald Trump’s administration also received similar bomb threats, as well as “swatting attacks,” where emergency law enforcement is falsely summoned under pretenses of danger.
Senator Chris Murphy’s office stated that his Hartford home was among the targeted locations, describing the bomb threat as part of a “coordinated effort” involving multiple public figures. Authorities from Hartford Police and U.S. Capitol Police investigated and confirmed there was no threat present.
Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro posted an update on social media, noting that the New Haven Police Department’s bomb squad had responded to a threat at her home, quickly determining there was no bomb. “I am thankful for their swift response & relieved no one was harmed,” DeLauro wrote.
Representative Jahana Hayes reported a threatening email claiming a pipe bomb had been placed in her Wolcott home’s mailbox. In response, local police, state police, U.S. Capitol Police, and the House sergeant-at-arms coordinated their efforts, ultimately finding no explosive materials.
Joe Courtney’s office revealed that a bomb threat was made to his Vernon home while his wife and children were present. Fortunately, no danger was found after law enforcement responded.
Jim Himes was informed of a bomb threat against his Greenwich home while celebrating Thanksgiving with family. Local police, including those from Greenwich and Stamford, worked with U.S. Capitol Police to ensure the safety of his home, with Himes expressing gratitude for their swift response.
John Larson also reported a bomb threat at his East Hartford residence, which was promptly addressed by local police.
The FBI has not provided further details but stated that it is investigating the threats in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies.
This latest wave of threats follows a history of political violence, including a July shooting at a Trump rally and thwarted assassination attempts. The latest threats coincide with a period marked by increasing political tensions and violence across the country.
The bomb threats also follow similar incidents on Wednesday, where prominent figures associated with President-elect Trump, such as Rep. Elise Stefanik and former Rep. Lee Zeldin, reported receiving threats.
The incidents have raised alarms about political violence in the U.S. As several of the lawmakers affected echoed in their statements, there is a growing concern over the safety of public figures and the need for civility in political discourse.
