**Rep. Mike Waltz Questions FBI’s Assertion of Lone Assassin**
Rep. Mike Waltz has expressed his dissatisfaction with the FBI and Secret Service’s claims that Thomas Matthew Crooks, the would-be assassin of former President Donald Trump, acted alone. Waltz, a member of the House task force investigating the assassination attempt, believes that there is not enough evidence to definitively say that Crooks did not have any assistance in planning and carrying out the shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania.
During an exclusive interview with The Post, Waltz highlighted several unanswered questions surrounding the case. He questioned how Crooks acquired the knowledge to build improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and install remote detonators, as well as how he conducted internet searches related to his plot without raising suspicion. These questions underscore the need for further investigation into potential co-conspirators.
Waltz’s skepticism follows the FBI’s recent progress in uncovering Crooks’ online activities. The agency informed Congress members that they had gained access to two of the three encrypted foreign online accounts believed to belong to Crooks. These accounts were found on encrypted messaging and social media platforms. However, the FBI did not disclose the number or content of the messages.
The investigation into Crooks’ motive has also hit a roadblock. Despite learning about his search history, which included inquiries about Trump’s appearances and the Democratic National Convention, the FBI has yet to determine a clear motive for the assassination attempt. It remains unclear whether the approximately 700 social media messages attributed to Crooks were solely written by him, as there is speculation that an older family member may have contributed to some of the posts.
The slow pace of the investigation has frustrated members of Congress, including Waltz. He emphasized the urgency of understanding whether Crooks had accomplices, especially considering the ongoing threats faced by public figures. Waltz expressed his disappointment with the limited progress made in uncovering the truth about the assassination attempt and called for a more expedient and comprehensive investigation.
The FBI declined to comment on the matter, leaving many questions unanswered. As the investigation continues, it is crucial for authorities to provide a thorough analysis of the evidence, including any potential involvement of co-conspirators. Only by doing so can they ensure the safety of public figures and prevent similar incidents in the future.
