A Pennsylvania man, Raymond Chandler III, has been federally charged with influencing, impeding, or retaliating against a federal official through threats. Chandler is accused of leaving disturbing voicemails to a U.S. congressman, including threats to kill a family member of the representative and calling for the assassination of President Donald Trump.
Threatening Voicemails and Disturbing Claims
The allegations against Chandler are detailed in a criminal complaint filed by the FBI, which includes Chandler’s campaign for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania, where he aims to replace Senator John Fetterman (D-Penn.). His campaign website outlines several radical goals, such as “Tax the Billionaires,” “Fight Against Corruption,” and “Support Working Families.”
On April 18, Chandler reportedly left a voicemail directed at an unnamed U.S. representative. In the voicemail, Chandler allegedly painted a violent scenario, where wealthy individuals, including the congressman and his family, are surrounded and attacked by a mob.
He described in graphic detail how they would be murdered, claiming, “That is the future.” Chandler reportedly added that wealth concentration had grown so extreme that people would eventually resort to violent acts.
Voicemail Calling for Trump’s Assassination
On April 28, Chandler allegedly escalated his threats further. In a second voicemail to the same congressman, Chandler reportedly urged the representative to assassinate President Trump. “I want you to take a firearm… and kill him,” Chandler allegedly said, petitioning the congressman to carry out the act on his behalf. He described Trump as “the antichrist” and accused the president of lying and deceiving the American people.
Chandler’s statements, including his call to “kill the President,” are considered threats against a federal official, which carry severe criminal penalties under U.S. law.
Additional Threats and Alleged Violence
Further investigations into Chandler’s history revealed that he had also made violent threats regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
In April 2025, Chandler reportedly voiced concerns about being sent to “death camps” and claimed he had purchased weapons in preparation for violent actions. Chandler allegedly stated his intent to build gallows to hang the congressman and expressed belief that violence against certain individuals, including President Trump, was becoming “necessary.”
Legal Proceedings and Future Court Appearance
The charges against Chandler include federal offenses related to threatening federal officials. A magistrate judge in the U.S. Western District of Pennsylvania is handling the case, but it is not yet clear when Chandler will appear in court.
This case highlights the growing concern over violent rhetoric and threats directed at public officials, and it underscores the legal consequences for those who incite violence or attempt to influence political processes through intimidation and threats.
