The Democratic National Convention (DNC) approaches, Frank Figliuzzi, former assistant director for counterintelligence at the FBI, has raised serious concerns about Vice President Kamala Harris’s security. Harris, the first woman of color to hold the office, symbolizes progress but also faces unique threats due to her mixed Black and Indian heritage.
In an interview with Newsweek on August 11, Figliuzzi highlighted how Harris’s racial and ethnic background could increase risks for the DNC, scheduled to be held in Chicago from August 19 to 22. According to Figliuzzi, the heightened threat stems from violent extremism driven by white supremacist ideologies that target individuals representing racial and cultural diversity.
During his FBI tenure, Figliuzzi testified about the dangers posed by racially and ethnically motivated extremism, which he considers a significant form of domestic terrorism. This type of extremism, he explained, is particularly dangerous for public figures like Harris who embody the diversity that such groups oppose.
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The concerns come amid heightened tensions in the U.S. regarding race and identity. Harris’s candidacy and vice presidency have made her a beacon of hope for many but also a target for extremists. The DNC, where Harris is expected to officially accept the Democratic nomination for president, is seen as a potential flashpoint for violence.
Recent events underscore the seriousness of these threats. On August 2, the FBI arrested Frank Carillo of Virginia after he allegedly made online threats against Harris and other officials. Carillo, who used the social media platform GETTR to post violent messages, allegedly threatened to set Harris on fire. This case highlights the real dangers posed by hate-fueled individuals.
While the FBI has taken action by arresting Carillo, understanding his motivations remains challenging. The arrest serves as a stark reminder of the difficulties law enforcement faces in tracking and preventing extremist violence, particularly from lone actors who often operate under the radar.
Figliuzzi emphasized that lone actors represent a significant and unpredictable threat. These individuals can be difficult to detect and prevent from carrying out their plans, especially online. Despite public perceptions, the FBI cannot monitor all online communications without specific, actionable intelligence.
“The FBI can only monitor communications when there is proper predication,” Figliuzzi noted, emphasizing that it is impossible to track every potential threat. He also pointed out the delicate balance between maintaining privacy and ensuring security, acknowledging the limitations of law enforcement in preventing extremist acts.
The DNC’s designation as a National Security Special Event means that extensive federal resources and strategies, including classified techniques, will be deployed to secure the event. This status aims to make it more challenging for lone actors to disrupt the convention. Nonetheless, the threat underscores the risks faced by public figures like Harris in today’s polarized political environment.
