Government officials have been facing a wave of violent threats and acts of intimidation since the 2020 election, casting a shadow over the 2024 campaign.
The threats have led to bomb scares, swatting incidents, and targeted harassment of various officials, including judges and members of Congress.
“I am really worried that there is going to be a tragedy,” Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Jill Karofsky said.
“I believe people when they say that they want to hurt us or kill us. I don’t think they’re idle threats.”
“I think mostly radical people on the right … are trying to exert influence on the judiciary in an anti-democratic fashion,” she added.
“It is through intimidation. It is through threats. It is through violence.”
These incidents are seen as attempts to influence decision-making and intimidate those in power.
The threats have impacted the lives of officials and are potentially deterring people from running for office or engaging in election work.
Women and people of color are particularly targeted and are more likely to step away from their roles due to threats.
Despite law enforcement advising targets not to discuss these attacks publicly, it’s important for the public to be aware of the challenges officials face.
