Summary
William Braddock, a former Republican congressional candidate, has been charged with threatening to hire a hit squad to kill his political rival, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.). The allegations stem from a June 2021 phone call in which Braddock reportedly mentioned a “Russian-Ukrainian hit squad” and made several derogatory remarks about Luna. Following these threats, he fled to the Philippines, where he was later extradited back to the U.S. to face charges.
The Justice Department’s indictment highlights the serious nature of election-related threats and political violence, particularly as the 2024 election cycle approaches. Braddock’s threats were recorded by a conservative activist, leading to a restraining order against him. Luna, who ultimately won the election and was sworn into Congress in January 2023, has expressed concerns about her safety, stating that she has received multiple threats, including a recent “very serious shooting threat.” The case underscores a growing concern over threats against political figures in the current political climate, as both Braddock and Luna’s experiences illustrate the potential dangers faced by candidates and elected officials.
Background of the Threats
- Nature of Threats: Braddock’s threats included claims about using a hit squad and derogatory comments about Luna, reflecting an alarming level of hostility in political contests.
- Legal Proceedings: After fleeing the U.S., Braddock was extradited and has been charged with interstate transmission of a true threat to injure another person, facing a potential maximum sentence of five years in prison.
Context of Political Violence
- Political Climate: The Justice Department has been actively addressing threats against election officials and candidates, particularly through its Election Threats Task Force established in 2021.
- Luna’s Experience: Since her election, Luna has reported an increase in threats against her, indicating a troubling trend of violence and intimidation in the political arena.
This situation reflects broader concerns regarding the safety of political candidates and the increasing volatility of political discourse in the United States.
Sep. 29 / Google News / Provides a detailed account of the charges against Braddock, including the context of political violence and threats, while highlighting the implications for election safety. It effectively emphasizes the seriousness of the situation. “ DOJ charges Rep. Anna Paulina Luna's former Florida primary opponent with threatening to kill political rival Fox NewsFlorida congressional candidate charged...
Sep. 29 / Fox News / Highlights the serious charges against Braddock, detailing the context of political violence and legal implications. It effectively captures the growing concern over threats to political figures, making it informative and timely. “ Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., says Americans want a leader like former President Trump on 'The Ingraham Angle.' The Justice Department charged a former...
Opponent of Anna Paulina Luna charged with threatening to hire hit squad against political rival
Sep. 29 / New York Post / Highlights the alarming threats made by Braddock against Luna, providing detailed context and legal implications. The article effectively captures the growing concern over political violence, making it a compelling read. “ A former congressional candidate was charged over allegations that he threatened to dispatch a hit squad to murder his political opponent while he was...
Opponent of Anna Paulina Luna charged with threatening to hire hit squad against political rival
Sep. 29 / New York Post / Highlights the alarming threats made by Braddock against Luna, providing detailed context and legal implications. It effectively captures the growing concern over political violence, making it a compelling read. “ A former congressional candidate was charged over allegations that he threatened to dispatch a hit squad to murder his political opponent while he was...