The FBI and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have issued a joint intelligence bulletin warning of possible “follow-on or retaliatory” attacks following the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald J. Trump.
The bulletin urged local, state, and federal law enforcement and their partners to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior.
“The FBI and DHS remain concerned … particularly given that individuals in some online communities have threatened, encouraged, or referenced acts of violence in response to the attempted assassination,” said the bulletin, issued Monday night as the Republican National Convention got underway in Milwaukee to officially nominate Trump as the Republican Party’s candidate for the White House in November.
Read: WaPo Columnist Blames Trump, GOP For ‘Political Violence’ Following Assassination Attempt
Though Monday night’s bulletin said federal authorities are still trying to determine exactly what motivated the shooter, the bulletin noted that “the resonance of divisive topics in public discourse” could contribute to the current threat environment.
It also said that “lone actors” or small groups of extremists “likely will continue to view” political rallies and campaign events as “attractive targets.”
The warning comes amid a rise in political tensions and polarization in the country. The attempted assassination has further fueled concerns about the potential for violence, particularly in the lead-up to the upcoming elections.
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