Ex-Florida Candidate Charged for Alleged Threat Against Congresswoman

In a case highlighting the persistent issue of threats against female politicians, William Robert Braddock III, a former congressional candidate in Florida, has been charged with making serious threats against his one-time rival, now-Representative Anna Paulina Luna. The charges stem from events during the 2021 Republican primary for Florida's 13th Congressional District, which encompasses parts of Pinellas County, including St. Petersburg.

The 13th District, created in 1973, has become the center of a troubling incident that underscores the challenges faced by women in politics. Luna, who made history as the first Mexican-American woman to represent Florida in Congress, found herself the target of alleged threats from her opponent. This case adds to the growing concern about political violence against women, an issue recognized globally by the United Nations.

According to federal prosecutors, Braddock, 41, made alarming statements during a June 2021 phone call with Erin Olszewski, an acquaintance of Luna. The conversation, which was secretly recorded, allegedly included threats to employ a "Russian-Ukrainian hit squad" against Luna. This reference to organized crime groups, reminiscent of the Russian mafia or Bratva that emerged during the Soviet era, added a chilling dimension to the threats.

The charges against Braddock fall under the category of interstate transmission of a true threat, a federal crime since 1934. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison. This case is being handled by the Justice Department, founded in 1870, with potential involvement from the FBI, which often investigates such interstate threats.

In the aftermath of these events, both Luna and Olszewski sought protective orders against Braddock, accusing him of stalking. These legal measures, which became common in the 1970s, reflect the seriousness of the situation. During a September 2021 hearing, Luna testified about the emotional toll of the threats, stating, "This man has put me through emotional hell."

Braddock's actions led to his withdrawal from the primary race. Luna went on to win the primary and subsequently secured the congressional seat in the 2022 midterms, joining the ranks of the 435 voting members in the U.S. House of Representatives. As of 2024, women comprise about 28% of the U.S. Congress, a figure that has grown significantly since Jeannette Rankin became the first woman elected to Congress in 1916.

The case took an international turn when Braddock moved to the Philippines following his withdrawal from the race. He was later deported to the United States, likely under the Philippines-US extradition treaty signed in 1994. Upon his return, Braddock appeared in a Los Angeles courtroom to face the charges.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the disproportionate targeting of female politicians for stalking, violence, and harassment compared to their male counterparts. It echoes concerns raised by the U.S. Marshals Service, an agency founded in 1789 that often provides protection for threatened officials.

As the legal proceedings unfold, this case continues to shed light on the broader issue of violence in the political arena, particularly against women candidates and officeholders. It underscores the need for continued efforts to ensure the safety and security of all individuals participating in the democratic process, regardless of gender.

"Female members of Congress are disproportionately targeted for stalking, violence, and harassment compared to their male counterparts. This alarming trend points to a broader and more disturbing issue of violence in the political arena."