Federal authorities are investigating letters containing “suspicious substances” sent to congressional and election offices nationwide, with several Colorado lawmaker offices reporting they were affected. The investigation involves the FBI, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the U.S. Capitol Police, who are urging recipients to treat such mailings as “potentially hazardous.”
The investigation was first disclosed in a message from the Senate Sergeant at Arms, obtained on Thursday by The Associated Press. The message, sent to Senate offices, noted that law enforcement officials are working to intercept additional letters, but it is possible some may still reach their destinations. The FBI confirmed its involvement, stating it is investigating a series of suspicious mailings to various addresses nationwide, including Secretary of State offices, election offices, and Congressional offices. The agency stated that some letters contained an unknown substance and that it is working with partners to respond to each incident and identify those responsible. The FBI and U.S. Postal Inspection Service reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the public and securing elections for American citizens.
In Colorado, an unnamed lawmaker’s office in Denver was notified that postal investigators intercepted a suspicious letter addressed to them. The lawmaker expressed gratitude to federal authorities for their work protecting staff and others targeted, stating that “violence and intimidation have no place in our politics.” Another Colorado lawmaker reported that a threatening letter with suspicious substances was sent to their district office in Boulder County. This lawmaker thanked local and federal law enforcement for their swift response, which ensured no continued threat to public safety in the area. They emphasized that the nature of these mailings, whether intended to cause physical harm or provoke unease, would not deter their team from serving the people of Colorado’s 2nd District.
An additional Colorado congressional office, located in Aurora, also received a letter with a suspicious substance. A lawmaker whose office was affected in Aurora thanked the FBI, U.S. Capitol Police, and Aurora Police Department for their rapid investigation and ensuring safety, confirming staff were safe and the district office remained open for assistance. Attempts to intimidate staff or the lawmaker would not stop their work on behalf of Coloradans, the lawmaker stated.
Separately, an unnamed lawmaker reported their Lakewood office received one of more than 800 suspicious envelopes that have been sent to elected officials’ offices containing a white substance. This lawmaker called the incidents a “deeply disturbing effort to intimidate sitting Members of Congress” and expressed gratitude for the safety of staff, who should not fear for their lives while working. The lawmaker also thanked the Colorado FBI for its quick action. Another Colorado lawmaker confirmed their office also received a letter containing a suspicious substance, stating their staff were safe and unharmed, and thanking local law enforcement for their rapid response and commitment to public safety. This lawmaker rejected the act of intimidation and affirmed focus on serving constituents.
Across the state, lawmakers’ statements consistently highlighted the safety of their staff, appreciation for law enforcement's quick actions, and a firm rejection of intimidation tactics aimed at public servants. They reiterated their commitment to continuing their work on behalf of Coloradans despite these incidents. Federal authorities continue their investigation to identify the individuals responsible for these mailings and ensure public safety.