Suspicious letters sent to Orlando lawmakers as investigation grows

At least three Florida lawmakers have received suspicious letters, prompting a federal investigation into the source of the mail, FOX 35 Orlando reported. Among those affected are the offices of Orlando representatives Maxwell Frost and Darren Soto, where similar letters were discovered recently.

The office of Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz in Sunrise also received one of the suspicious letters, leading to an evacuation while first responders investigated. The contents of that letter tested negative for hazardous materials, according to FOX 13 News.

The investigation has expanded nationwide, with similar letters reported at the offices of Wisconsin's two U.S. senators and three members of Congress from Arizona. Other lawmakers across the country, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sen. Ted Cruz, have also received suspicious mail.

The FBI and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service are leading the investigation. Retired investigator James Copenhaver noted that mailed letters are scanned and time-stamped, which may help trace the origin and handling of the suspicious mail. No sender has been publicly identified yet.

The incidents highlight ongoing concerns about threats against public officials, as noted by New York Rep. Ritchie Torres. Authorities continue to investigate the matter to determine the source and intent behind the letters.