By Steve Neavling
Federal law enforcement agencies are warning of a potential “retaliatory” attack against Democrats after a 20-year-old gunman tried to assassinate former President Trump, according to a new intelligence report obtained by CNN.
The threat assessment by the FBI, Department of Homeland Security and other agencies identifies several possible security concerns at the upcoming Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
“The FBI and DHS remain concerned about the potential for follow-on or retaliatory acts of violence following the 13 July 2024 assassination attempt on (Trump) particularly given that individuals in some online communities have threatened, encouraged, or referenced acts of violence in response to the attempted assassination,” the assessment says.
There were no specific or credible threats.
“The United States is in a heightened threat environment, and regularly updates law enforcement and other partners,” DHS told CNN in a statement Thursday. “There is no verified, specific reporting to indicate a threat to the Democratic National Convention at this time, but we note the risk that the event may be viewed as a target. We urge the public to stay vigilant and to promptly report suspicious activity to local law enforcement.”
The convention begins Aug. 19 and is expected to pull in more than 50,000 visitors to downtown Chicago, including President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.
