A disturbing case of political intimidation has come to light, as William Robert Braddock III faces federal charges for allegedly threatening to kill Republican Representative Anna Paulina Luna.
At a Glance
- William Robert Braddock III charged with threatening to kill Rep. Anna Paulina Luna during 2021 GOP primary
- Braddock allegedly mentioned a “Russian-Ukrainian hit squad” to eliminate Luna
- Justice Department’s election threats task force handling the case, highlighting its severity
- Braddock faces up to five years in prison if convicted
- Luna, an Air Force veteran, vocal about increasing threats against female politicians
Shocking Allegations Emerge
The Justice Department has taken swift action in a case that threatens the very foundations of our democratic process. William Robert Braddock III, a former Florida congressional candidate, stands accused of making chilling death threats against Republican Representative Anna Paulina Luna. This alarming development raises serious questions about the safety of our elected officials and the integrity of our political system.
According to the indictment unsealed on Thursday, Braddock allegedly made multiple threats on June 8, 2021, during the Republican primary for Florida’s 13th congressional district. The most disturbing of these threats involved Braddock boasting about a “Russian-Ukrainian hit squad” he could call upon to eliminate Luna, his one-time primary rival.
DOJ charges Rep. Anna Paulina Luna's former Florida primary opponent with threatening to kill political rival https://t.co/aZg3dV0VZH
— Fox News (@FoxNews) September 29, 2024
Serious Consequences and Legal Action
The Justice Department has charged Braddock with one count of interstate transmission of a true threat to injure another person. If convicted, he could face up to five years in federal prison. This isn’t just political mudslinging – it’s a stark reminder of the very real dangers facing those who step up to serve our nation.
“call up my Russian-Ukrainian hit squad” William Robert Braddock threatened.
Luna, an Air Force veteran and former media consultant, had previously sought a permanent restraining order against Braddock, citing text messages where he allegedly expressed intentions to “take me out.” The congresswoman testified that while she had limited in-person contact with Braddock, she heard about his threats from acquaintances.
A former Florida congressional candidate was charged with allegedly threatening to “call up” his “Russian-Ukrainian hit squad” to kill his Republican primary opponent, Anna Paulina Luna, in 2021.https://t.co/kU9IJtH3Np
— The Daily Beast (@thedailybeast) September 29, 2024
Broader Implications for Political Safety
This case is part of the Justice Department’s election threats task force, which addresses threats of violence against election workers and officials. It underscores the need for heightened security measures to protect our elected representatives, particularly as federal prosecutors crack down on election-related threats and political violence for the 2024 election cycle.
“Luna’s going to go down and I hope it’s by herself” Braddock allegedly said.
Luna’s spokesperson has highlighted the growing number of death threats against her and the disproportionate targeting of female members of Congress for violence and harassment. Recently, Luna’s office received what was described as a “very serious shooting threat,” further emphasizing the urgent need for action to protect our elected officials.
As conservatives, we must stand united against such thuggish tactics that have no place in American politics. The safety and security of our elected representatives, regardless of party affiliation, is paramount to maintaining the integrity of our democratic institutions. This case serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by those who choose to serve our nation in public office.
Sources:
- Florida Republican charged with threat to ‘call up hit squad’ to kill primary rival
- DOJ charges Rep. Anna Paulina Luna’s former Florida primary opponent with threatening to kill political rival
- Former opponent of Florida Rep. Anna Paulina Luna charged with threatening to hire hit squad against political rival
- Florida politician charged for allegedly threatening to kill political opponent
- Opponent of Rep. Anna Paulina Luna charged with threatening her in 2022 primary