Republican and Democratic officials in Georgia have reported a surge in violent and sexual threats following President Donald Trump's baseless claims of voter fraud in the state. Gabriel Sterling, a Republican election official, publicly called on Trump to stop inciting violence, warning that someone could be killed.
Democratic state senator Elena Parent faced a barrage of abuse after criticizing a hearing organized by Republican leaders, where Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani presented conspiracy theories. Parent received threats of sexual violence and death, and her home address was shared online, prompting increased police patrols.
Brad Raffensperger, Georgia's Republican secretary of state, who certified Joe Biden's victory after multiple recounts, also received threats. His wife was targeted with sexualised texts, and both now have police protection. The FBI is investigating the incidents.
Parent attributed the threats to Trump's 'cult-like following' and his refusal to accept the election result. She fears the situation will remain volatile through the Senate runoff elections on 5 January and beyond Biden's inauguration on 20 January.
