‘Political violence in any form is totally unacceptable and needs to be deterred in the strongest way possible’

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Center to Advance Security in America (CASA) today asked the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts to investigate potential violations of federal and state criminal laws by U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA) for physically attacking a political reporter while entering his campaign office.

On June 24, 2026, Moulton was asked by a political reporter commonly referred to as a “tracker” whether he endorsed Graham Platner in Maine. Moulton responded, “Who are you to be asking this question, can you answer that?” Moulton, scowling in anger, then seemingly physically attacked the reporter, causing the reporter’s phone to shake wildly and fall to the ground. Moulton taunted, “You gotta do a better job at hanging onto your phone.”

Less than 30 minutes later, Mouton doubled down, sharing video of the altercation and writing on X, “I’m not going to apologize for how much MAGA pisses me off. I’ll take them on anywhere, anytime, and I won’t back down. If this tracker can’t handle a reality check or hold onto his own equipment, that’s on him. Sorry not sorry.”

“Political violence in any form is totally unacceptable and needs to be deterred in the strongest way possible,” said CASA Director James Fitzpatrick. “Representative Moulton’s unhinged attack on a political reporter with whom he disagrees is extremely troubling and we believe an investigation is warranted.”

Moulton’s actions potentially violate Massachusetts assault and battery laws, as well as federal law because the ability for a journalist to inquire about the endorsements of a government official is protected activity by the United States.

CASA previously filed a complaint with the House Ethics Committee in May against Moulton over his public statements that appeared to threaten the life of Department of War Secretary Pete Hegseth. Then, as now, Moulton responded on social media by doubling down on his comments.

About CASA

The Center to Advance Security in America (CASA) is a nonpartisan organization dedicated to improving the safety and security of the American people. CASA educates and informs the public about the actions of their government and its officials that impact their safety; peace and security; democracy, civil rights, and civil liberties; and privacy.