Politician labels swatting call as an 'attempted assassination'

Republican Congressman Brandon Williams was startled on Christmas Day when he received a call from an unfamiliar number. Initially, he ignored it, but upon reading the voicemail transcription, he discovered that it was a message from the local Sheriff's office reporting a shooting at his house. It was a swatting incident, where a hoax call is made to the police to dispatch a heavily-armed SWAT team. Williams had to protect his family and de-escalate the situation within 60 seconds. Swatting is a dangerous act that has led to fatalities in the past. Congressman Williams believes the incident was politically motivated, as he has been a vocal supporter of Israel. Similar swatting incidents targeting members of Congress and judges have become increasingly common. The FBI has set up a national database to track these incidents, as they put innocent individuals at risk. Swatting is not limited to political figures; Secretary of State for Maine, Democrat Shenna Bellows, was swatted after disqualifying Donald Trump from the presidential primary ballot in her state. The escalating threats have changed her behavior, causing her to be cautious about sharing her location. Secretary Bellows believes the swatting incident was linked to her decision. Police find it challenging to catch those responsible as the calls are often made using advanced technology. The polarized political environment and upcoming election further exacerbate the issue. Congressman Williams believes that swatting incidents are meant to incite fear, hatred, and disrupt the American political system.