Pete Buttigieg says police and Child Protective Services showed up at his home to investigate an anonymous tip — one that turned out to be false.
Buttigieg, who is widely considered a potential 2028 Democratic presidential contender, disclosed the incident publicly, describing how his children were caught up in an investigation triggered by a tip authorities ultimately determined had no basis. He didn’t specify when the visit occurred or name the jurisdiction involved.
The tactic — filing a false report to dispatch emergency services or investigators to someone’s address — has been used against public figures across the political spectrum. When it involves law enforcement, it’s commonly called swatting. Directing CPS under false pretenses follows the same pattern but targets a parent’s relationship with their children rather than their physical safety.
No charges against Buttigieg or any member of his family resulted from the investigation. The anonymous tip was found to be fabricated.
Buttigieg served as Secretary of Transportation under President Biden from 2021 through early 2025. He and his husband, Chasten Buttigieg, are parents to two children. His decision to share the story publicly drew attention given his profile as a figure already navigating early speculation about a future White House run.
Who filed the anonymous tip — and whether investigators are pursuing the person responsible — hasn’t been disclosed.
