Federal authorities are investigating a series of suspicious letters — some containing an unidentified white powder — sent to state election officials and congressional offices in multiple states, according to statements from the FBI and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service reported by NPR.
What investigators say
The FBI said it is investigating suspicious mailings to “various addresses nationwide, including Secretary of State offices and their related election offices,” and noted that “some of the letters contained an unknown substance,” per NPR. The bureau said it is working with partners to identify those responsible.
Deputy Chief Inspector Brendan Donahue of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service told NPR the agency “was able to stop the delivery of at least one of the mailings,” adding, “Some of the letters have contained an unknown substance, and we’re working closely with our law enforcement partners to respond to each incident.”
Where letters have turned up
NPR reports the mailings were sent to election officials in states including Louisiana, Ohio and Oklahoma, as well as congressional offices. A Louisiana Secretary of State spokesperson, Trey Williams, said an employee who opened a letter on Tuesday was not injured but was taken to the emergency room as a precaution, and that law enforcement found no evidence of harmful substances.
A senator’s office targeted
Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., told NPR his office was among those targeted: “My office is in touch with the FBI, U.S. Postal Service and Senate security officials following a suspicious package the U.S. Postal Service intercepted before reaching our office. Thankfully, no threat was posed to my staff or our office.” He also characterized the incident as “a stark reminder of the very real dangers facing those who serve the public … in the face of increasingly hostile political rhetoric — especially from Donald Trump.” That final point reflects Padilla’s view.
Senate security’s warning
According to a communication from the Senate’s Sergeant at Arms (SAA) to congressional staff obtained by NPR, law enforcement is “working to intercept any additional letters before they are delivered, however, it is possible that some letters may reach their destinations.” The SAA advised staff that suspicious mail “should be treated as potentially hazardous and handled in accordance with established safety protocols,” and warned not to handle such letters and to leave the area where they are found.
The SAA note said telltale signs could include discoloration, powder escaping from an envelope, and postmarks that do not match the return address. NPR reports that an image included in the SAA communication showed a return address labeled “DSA” with a New York City address. The U.S. Capitol Police and SAA did not return NPR’s requests for comment.
Context and timing
NPR notes the investigation echoes incidents in 2024, when more than 15 state election offices received suspicious mailings. With less than three weeks until Nov. 3, election officials around the country are preparing for the midterms.
In a joint statement cited by NPR, the National Association of Secretaries of State and the National Association of State Election Directors said those who administer elections “should never fear for their safety while carrying out their essential duties.”
If you encounter suspicious mail
Per the Senate SAA guidance reported by NPR: treat any suspicious letters, packages, or substances as potentially hazardous, do not handle them, and leave the immediate area.
This is a developing situation. Details may change as authorities continue their work.
