ALBANY, N.Y. (NEXSTAR) — Congressmember Elise Stefanik learned she was the target of a bomb threat on Wednesday morning, according to a statement from her office. She and her family found out while driving home to Saratoga County for Thanksgiving.
Law enforcement, including New York State Police, Saratoga County deputies, and U.S. Capitol Police, responded quickly, Stefanik's office said. Officers secured the area and confirmed the family was not at risk.
"On November 27, 2024, at about 9 a.m., New York State Police responded to the residence of U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik in the town of Saratoga for a bomb threat," said State Police in a statement. "State Police members and K9 units trained in explosives detection swept the home and did not locate any explosive devices."
A tweet from the office of Stefanik—perhaps the most powerful Republican in New York and President-elect Donald Trump's pick for United Nations Ambassador—thanked law enforcement for their professionalism and help during the holiday. She wished the community a safe Thanksgiving and acknowledged the families who work through the season.
Former Congressman Lee Zeldin wrote on X that his home was also the target of a bomb threat. Zeldin was chosen by President-Elect Trump to head the Environmental Protection Agency.
"A pipe bomb threat targeting me and my family at our home today was sent in with a pro-Palestinian-themed message," said Zeldin on X. "My family and I were not home at the time and are safe. We are working with law enforcement to learn more as this situation develops. We are thankful for the swift actions taken by local officers to keep our family, neighbors, and local community secure."
The Trump-Vance Transition Team reported other threats targeting several Trump appointees, including bomb scares and swatting incidents. Transition spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt condemned the threats as "violent" and "un-American."
"Anytime a Member of Congress is the victim of a 'swatting' incident, we work closely with our local and federal law enforcement partners. To protect ongoing investigations and to minimize the risk of copy-cats, we cannot provide more details at this time," The United States Capitol Police said in a statement.
Stick with NEWS10 for more on this breaking story as it develops. Law enforcement has not released details about any suspects or investigations. A statement from the FBI reads:
“The FBI is aware of numerous bomb threats and swatting incidents targeting incoming administration nominees and appointees, and we are working with our law enforcement partners. We take all potential threats seriously, and as always, encourage members of the public to immediately report anything they consider suspicious to law enforcement.”
