Bomb Threat at Sen. Elissa Slotkin’s Home After She Urged Troops to ‘Refuse Illegal Orders’

08:10 PM, 11/22/2025

Michigan State Police investigated a bomb threat at Sen. Elissa Slotkin’s home and found no one in danger. The incident followed a video in which Slotkin and other lawmakers urged service members to "refuse illegal orders," and a forceful response from former President Donald Trump labeling the move "seditious." Slotkin says she now has round-the-clock protection from Capitol Police and has defended the guidance as consistent with constitutional duty. Authorities are continuing their investigation amid concerns about heated political rhetoric and safety for public officials.

Michigan State Police responded Friday to a bomb threat at the home of Sen. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., a spokesperson for the senator said. Authorities searched the property, confirmed there was no immediate danger and said Slotkin "wasn’t home at the time."

Law enforcement response

Neither Slotkin’s office nor Michigan State Police immediately provided further details about who made the threat or whether any suspects have been identified. Authorities said the residence was cleared and the senator was not harmed. Investigations into the source of the threat are ongoing.

Context and backlash

The incident followed a video released earlier this week in which Slotkin — a former CIA officer — and several other Democratic lawmakers, including veterans, urged military and intelligence personnel to "refuse illegal orders" from the administration. The message cited the duty of service members to uphold the Constitution.

Former President Donald Trump publicly condemned the video, calling the lawmakers' actions "seditious behavior" and saying such conduct was "punishable by death," and he urged their arrest. Trump also reposted social-media comments that suggested violence against the lawmakers. The White House press secretary later said the president did not want members of Congress executed, while criticizing the lawmakers for allegedly encouraging service members to defy "lawful orders."

Senator's response and security

Slotkin defended the guidance, writing that refusing unlawful commands "is the law," and emphasizing that the military swears an oath to the Constitution rather than any individual leader. She told reporters she has received enhanced protection and that the U.S. Capitol Police have provided 24/7 security.

"Leadership climate is set from the top," Slotkin said in an interview. "If the president is saying you should be hanged, then we shouldn’t be surprised when folks on the ground are going to follow suit and say even worse."

Related incidents and broader concerns

The threat against Slotkin comes amid heightened tensions and a recent spate of politically charged harassment, including a "swatting" incident that targeted Indiana state Sen. Greg Goode after he was criticized by national political figures. Lawmakers and security officials have warned that heated political rhetoric can spur real-world threats to public officials.

Authorities continue to investigate the threat to Slotkin’s residence. The episode has renewed debate over political rhetoric, public safety and the responsibilities of elected leaders to avoid language that could incite violence.