Secret Service Investigates Candidate Who Called for Trump's Death

The U.S. Secret Service is investigating William Upham, a former Marine first lieutenant and Republican write-in candidate for Florida's 5th Congressional District, after he released a video calling President Donald Trump the "Antichrist" and stating that he "must be killed." In the video, Upham wore his military uniform and characterized the president as a "false messiah" and the "enemy of God."

The United States Marine Corps denounced the statements, noting that Upham was medically discharged on May 30, 2025. The military branch stated the comments were a direct violation of the oath Upham swore to uphold and contradicted the service's values. Acting U.S. Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao also condemned the remarks as unacceptable, asserting that Upham no longer represents the values or ethos of the Marines.

While the U.S. Secret Service declined to provide operational details, the agency confirmed it is aware of the comments and investigates any perceived threats toward its protectees. Federal law classifies threatening the president as a crime punishable by up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.