An Allegheny County man running as a Democrat for the U.S. Senate is facing accusations related to alleged threats directed at President Donald Trump and a member of Congress.
An Federal Bureau of Investigation spokesperson confirmed that federal agents arrested Raymond Chandler in Pittsburgh with assistance from the United States Secret Service.
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Court documents filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, obtained by local outlets, describe several alleged statements investigators say Chandler made.
According to the affidavit, Chandler allegedly left a voicemail on April 18 for an unidentified member of Congress in which he referenced violent acts involving public officials and their families.
The affidavit states he later connected those comments to concerns about economic inequality and wealth concentration in the United States.
The filing further alleges that on April 29, Chandler left another voicemail urging violence against President Trump and making additional inflammatory remarks about the president.
Representatives for the member of Congress later contacted authorities after the messages reportedly became increasingly alarming and referenced elected officials and immigration enforcement agencies.
Hours before his arrest, Chandler reportedly posted a YouTube campaign video announcing plans to challenge John Fetterman in Pennsylvania’s 2028 Senate election.
His campaign platform included progressive policy proposals such as higher taxes on billionaires, expanded social programs, increased technology regulation, and immigration policy changes.
Earlier this month, another suspect connected to a separate incident near the White House Correspondents’ Dinner appeared in federal court for an initial hearing on charges filed by prosecutors.
Cole Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, is accused of entering the Washington Hilton while carrying weapons and attempting to approach the ballroom where President Trump attended the event alongside officials and journalists.
According to the United States Department of Justice, Allen faces charges including attempted assassination of the president, firearm-related offenses, and transporting a weapon across state lines.
During the hearing, Allen spoke quietly and acknowledged the proceedings as Magistrate Judge Matthew Sharbaugh explained the case details before the court.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Ballantine told the court prosecutors were seeking pretrial detention due to the seriousness of the allegations.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro later stated that the investigation remains ongoing and indicated that additional charges could be considered as authorities continue reviewing the case.
Benjamin Harris is a RapidReports front page contributor and editor,proud father of four.
