Official newspaper of The University of Texas at Austin

The Daily Texan

Official newspaper of The University of Texas at Austin

The Daily Texan

Official newspaper of The University of Texas at Austin

The Daily Texan

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October 4, 2022
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News outlet received warning of potential Texas terror threat preceding election

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Caleb Kuntz

CBS News reported Friday that Texas, New York and Virginia are possible targets for an attack from al-Qaida on the eve of the election Tuesday.

An unnamed source told Pat Milton, a senior investigative producer with the network, that U.S. intelligence had alerted counterterrorism about the threat.

It’s not clear how serious the threat really is, but U.S. authorities are proceeding with “an abundance of caution,” according to the initial CBS report.


A New York Police Department spokesperson said in a statement the threat lacks “specificity,” and the FBI and NYPD said they are evaluating the credibility of the information.

The Austin Police Department said in a press release it is working with local and federal law enforcement to monitor the threat.

“The Austin Police Department continues to monitor the reported threats directed towards next week’s National elections,” the press release read. “APD had already enhanced our security posture for next week and will make any necessary additional adjustments if the need arises. It is important for our community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior or activity.”

FBI San Antonio spokesperson Michelle Lee said the bureau is remaining vigilant in Central Texas but did not confirm the reports or comment on the details of the threat.

“The counterterrorism and homeland security communities remain vigilant and well-postured to defend against attacks here in the United States,” Lee said in a statement.

Gov. Greg Abbott said his office is closely monitoring the situation.

“Texans should go about their daily lives as usual, but remain vigilant over the next several days and report any suspicious activity to state or local law enforcement,” Abbott said in a statement. “The State of Texas will continue to do everything it can to ensure the safety and security of its citizens.”

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News outlet received warning of potential Texas terror threat preceding election