9 lawmakers from state among targets of nationwide mail threat

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, October 18, 2026

At least nine California members of Congress, along with dozens of other elected officials and state election offices nationwide, have received suspicious letters containing a white powdery substance, prompting evacuations and investigations by federal authorities. Although preliminary tests show the substance is not hazardous, the threats have raised concerns about political intimidation and the safety of those overseeing the upcoming general election.

At least nine members of California’s congressional delegation are among dozens of elected officials and state election offices nationwide targeted with suspicious letters containing a white powdery substance, prompting widespread law enforcement responses and evacuations. Preliminary tests have not identified the substance as hazardous.

The letters, sent to both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, arrived in the weeks leading up to the November 3 general election. California lawmakers who confirmed receipt include Senator Alex Padilla; Representatives Gil Cisneros (D-Covina), Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley Village), Kevin Kiley (R-Rocklin), Zoe Lofgren (D-San José), Ami Bera (D-Elk Grove), Mark DeSaulnier (D-Concord), Josh Harder (D-Tracy), and Doris Matsui (D-Sacramento).

Representative Kiley reported that a staff member opened the envelope and immediately secured the contents in a quarantine enclosure, triggering a response from the Roseville Fire Hazmat Task Force. No injuries were reported. Kiley emphasized the need for increased civility in political discourse. Panetta’s office in Santa Cruz was evacuated after a staff member opened a similar letter. He condemned attempts to intimidate public servants, stating such threats undermine democracy but will not deter lawmakers from their duties.

The incidents have prompted an ongoing joint investigation by the FBI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and U.S. Capitol Police. In a message from the Senate sergeant at arms issued Thursday, officials said they were working to intercept additional letters but acknowledged some may still reach their intended recipients. The FBI confirmed Saturday that it continues to coordinate with federal partners to respond to each case and identify those responsible.

Among other targets are national figures including Texas Senator Ted Cruz, whose Houston office was placed on lockdown after receiving a suspicious letter on Friday, and Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar, whose state office had a letter intercepted by postal workers before delivery.

State election offices across more than two dozen states, including Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, and Pennsylvania, have also reported receiving similar packages. The National Association of Secretaries of State and the National Association of State Election Directors issued a joint statement condemning the threats against election staff, underscoring that those administering elections should not fear for their safety while performing essential duties.

This series of incidents follows past occurrences in recent years where suspicious mailings containing white powder were sent to elected officials and election offices. In 2023, some packages tested positive for traces of fentanyl, a powerful opioid, although no hazardous materials were confirmed this year.

California Representative Mark DeSaulnier said his Walnut Creek office identified a letter matching the threatening description and contacted law enforcement without opening it. DeSaulnier called for national unity against political violence, citing the increasing intensity of threats targeting public officials.

Authorities continue to investigate the scope and source of these mail threats as the country approaches a closely contested election.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.