Rep. Waltz Concerned About Trump Shooter

Representative Mike Waltz has expressed skepticism regarding federal law enforcement's assertion that 19-year-old Crooks acted as a "lone wolf" in his attempted attack on former President Donald Trump. Waltz's doubts were amplified by revelations that Iran was simultaneously plotting an assassination against Trump, raising questions about the broader implications of such threats. He highlighted the disturbing nature of ongoing plots from foreign entities, particularly in light of a recent arrest of a Pakistani national involved in a similar scheme. Waltz questioned the credibility of the Secret Service and Department of Homeland Security's quick conclusion that Crooks operated independently, especially given his use of multiple foreign encrypted messaging accounts. He pointed out the challenges law enforcement faces in accessing these accounts, suggesting that the assertion of Crooks acting alone lacks sufficient evidence. "I don't buy that yet," he stated, emphasizing the need for a deeper investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack. The congressman also noted the technical capabilities displayed by Crooks, who was able to create multiple improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and questioned why such activities did not raise alarms. Waltz indicated that he would be attending an FBI briefing later, hoping for more clarity on the situation, though he remained doubtful about receiving satisfactory answers. As scrutiny of the U.S. Secret Service intensifies, Waltz urged for transparency and timely information release regarding the threats posed by foreign actors, particularly Iran, underscoring that the attack on Trump was not an isolated incident but part of a larger pattern of threats.