A day after President Donald Trump accused six lawmakers, including Pittsburgh-area Rep. Chris Deluzio of accused them of sedition punishable by death, two of his offices were threatened with bombs.
A spokesperson for Rep. Deluzio says district offices in Carnegie and Beaver County were “both targets of bomb threats (Friday) afternoon.”
The statement adds that it was only a threat and no one was hurt.
“The Congressman and congressional staff are safe, and thank law enforcement for swiftly responding. Political violence and threats like this are unacceptable,” the statement reads.
The group of six Democratic lawmakers, Deluzio, released a video telling service members to resist what they call illegal orders for attacks on drug boats and sending the National Guard to US cities.
On Thursday, President Trump responded to the video on his social media site, Truth Social, writing: "SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH."
Trump also reposted a message from another Truth Social user that reads: "HANG THEM GEORGE WASHINGTON WOULD."
The Democrats responded, saying, in a joint statement: “We are veterans and national security professionals who love this country and swore an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. That oath lasts a lifetime, and we intend to keep it. No threat, intimidation, or call for violence will deter us from that sacred obligation.
“What’s most telling is that the President considers it punishable by death for us to restate the law. Our servicemembers should know that we have their backs as they fulfill their oath to the Constitution and obligation to follow only lawful orders. It is not only the right thing to do, but also our duty.
“But this isn’t about any one of us. This isn’t about politics. This is about who we are as Americans. Every American must unite and condemn the President’s calls for our murder and political violence. This is a time for moral clarity.
“In these moments, fear is contagious, but so is courage. We will continue to lead and will not be intimidated.
“Don’t Give Up the Ship!”
Following President Trump's posting, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt was asked directly whether the president want to execute members of Congress, and she responded, "No."
Adding that the president is objecting to "dangerous rhetoric" by these lawmakers.
Ask whether the president's words are dangerous, Leavitt did not respond, asking instead: "Why aren't you talking about what these members of Congress are doing to encourage and insight violence?"