As if the infamous "Florida man" headlines could not get any crazier, a Florida man has now been arrested for threatening to kill US Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) and his children.
Representative Swalwell is a prominent House Democrat who currently represents California in the House of Representatives. The congressman tried running for president in 2020, but was unsuccessful, dropping out before losing to President Biden (D) in the primary race.
Swalwell has since become famous, or infamous in conservative circles for reasons other than his political success. Swalwell became embattled with controversy after it surfaced that he had personal ties with a CCP spy. The Chinese operative, named "Fang Fang," used campaign fundraising and networking, which is reported to have included romantic/sexual relationships with two Midwestern Mayors, and was able to acquire proximity to political power. Moreover, it “was a big deal, because there were some sensitive people that were caught up” with the Chinese operative according to US intelligence agencies.
The controversy has made him an easy target for voters to pick on. 72-year-old Michael Shapiro allegedly threatened Swalwell because of this incident with the Chinese spy. Of the five voicemails Shapiro is accused of making statements such as he will, "come and kill your children."
Shapiro is accused of leaving other voicemails that appeared to refer to allegations tying Swalwell to the suspected Chinese intelligence operative, according to the criminal complaint. They repeatedly refer to "a Chinese spy” and "Fang Fang," it says.
Swalwell stated in response to the criminal proceedings, "There is no place in America for threats of political violence. We must always resolve our differences at the ballot box. While I will continue to protect my family and staff these continued threats will never stop me from representing my constituents."
Shapiro has been released on bail and has an arraignment scheduled for January 24, 2024.
