Augusta, ME — Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows revealed on Saturday that her home was targeted in a swatting incident amid escalating threats following her decision to remove Donald Trump from the state’s 2024 primary ballot. Bellows stated on Facebook that her home address was posted online, leading to the swatting incident on Friday night.
Safety Concerns
Bellows and her husband were away for the holiday weekend when the threats escalated, and their home was swatted. Swatting involves making a false emergency call to prompt a strong police response at the targeted residence. The Maine State Police confirmed an unknown male’s call claiming a break-in at Bellows’ home, which was found empty upon investigation.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the swatting incident is ongoing, and authorities have not released a motive for the call. However, Bellows attributed the incident to her decision to bar Trump from the ballot. Her decision, based on Trump’s alleged role in the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, triggered a series of threats and online harassment.
Defending Decision
Bellows defended her decision to remove Trump from the ballot, stating that he did not meet constitutional requirements for holding high office. She cited Trump’s alleged engagement in insurrection and violation of the 14th Amendment in his attempt to overturn the 2020 election results.
Online Harassment
Conservative activists posted Bellows’ home address on social media in response to her decision. Bellows condemned the online harassment and threats, emphasizing that such behavior is unacceptable. She expressed concern that the actions were designed to intimidate not only her but also others into silence.
Heightened Security Concerns
The swatting incident comes in the wake of similar incidents targeting other political figures, both at the state and federal levels. Swatting and threats against public officials have raised concerns about the security of politicians and lawmakers in an era of heightened partisanship leading up to the 2024 elections.
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