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Investigation Requested into Arson Attack on Pennsylvania Governor’s Home
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer from New York is urging both Attorney General Pam Bondi and the FBI to probe the arson incident that targeted the residence of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. Schumer’s request is grounded in concerns that the attack might constitute an antisemitic hate crime under federal law.
In a letter dated April 17, Schumer highlighted “deeply troubling allegations” suggesting that the attack was motivated, at least in part, by Shapiro’s religious affiliation. He called for “immediate and serious federal scrutiny” of the situation.
The incident, which resulted in significant damage to the Shapiro family home, occurred while they were inside. Schumer drew attention to the symbolic timing of this attack coinciding with Passover. He referenced statements made by the suspect to 911 operators, which included a declaration aimed at sending a message to the governor regarding “what he wants to do to the Palestinian people.” The suspect went as far as to label Shapiro as “a monster.”
“Our federal authorities must bring the full weight of our civil rights laws to bear in examining this matter,” Schumer emphasized. He stressed that no individual or public figure should be targeted due to their faith, and communities should not feel that such acts might be overlooked.
Moreover, Schumer expressed gratitude for Bondi’s strong condemnation of the incident, urging the federal government to take all necessary actions to deliver justice and uphold principles of religious freedom and public safety.
In response to the incident, Bondi communicated with the media, stating that federal authorities are actively collaborating with state officials on the investigation. She expressed a desire for the perpetrator to face severe consequences for their actions, saying, “It is absolutely horrific what happened to [Shapiro].”
Bondi, along with FBI Director Kash Patel, has been in direct contact with Governor Shapiro regarding the situation.
The primary suspect, Cody Allen Balmer, hailing from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is currently facing charges related to the arson attack, which took place in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Governor Shapiro, who identifies as Jewish, is notable not only for his political role but also for being a part of former Vice President Kamala Harris’s list of potential running mates for the upcoming 2024 election.
Chuck Schumer, recognized as the highest-ranking Jewish official in the United States, recently published a book titled “Antisemitism in America: A Warning,” which addresses the increasing concerns regarding antisemitism in the country. This publication has garnered attention, becoming a bestseller on the New York Times list.
Source
thehill.com