Young man threatens New Hampshire governor Kelly Ayotte with violence

In New Hampshire, a 22-year-old man named Tristan Anderson was arrested following allegations of making threats against Governor Kelly Ayotte. The arrest transpired on August 28th, 2025, after Anderson, a resident of Hooksett, communicated threats via Snapchat messages. According to police reports, he expressed intentions to target the governor using violent language, even referencing a "weapon of mass destruction." These messages also included antisemitic comments regarding the Israeli government. He allegedly disclosed his ownership of guns and his efforts to create pipe bombs from fireworks. Further investigation revealed that Anderson showcased components for these bombs to a woman he had been communicating with on Snapchat. Police were informed that he possessed metal tubes, nuts, and bolts, indicating a serious intent to manufacture explosive devices. The threats and his behavior sparked concern about public safety and specifically about the security of elected officials in light of increasing political violence in the United States. Following his arrest, Anderson was charged with criminal threatening, a misdemeanor, as well as felony counts of threatening homicide or assault against a government official. He was detained without bail at Merrimack County Jail, and authorities took measures to ensure that he was prohibited from entering the State House grounds. The court has scheduled a dispositional conference on November 20, 2025, for Anderson's case. Ayotte has stated the importance of the security of state lawmakers, noting that officials and law enforcement are discussing security protocols, especially after recent incidents of political violence in the country. Despite the concerning nature of these threats, Ayotte emphasized the need for public accessibility to elected officials, maintaining that safety measures should not impede citizens' access to their government representatives. The balance between ensuring the safety of lawmakers while promoting open government remains a focal point for current discussions in New Hampshire.