The failed Trump assassination attempt has proven to be fertile ground for theories and conspiracies, with every new step in the investigation apparently raising more questions than answers.
The latest development came during the Republican National Convention (RNC) on July 18 when Representative Mike Waltz stated during an interview that Thomas Matthew Crooks – the would-be assassin – has two mobile phones and ‘3 encrypted overseas accounts.’
At the time of publication, the significance and details of the claims remain unclear, as the congressman simply stated that the FBI was ‘pissed,’ requesting more resources, and conducting the investigation. He added that more information would be available after the Monday briefing.
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Servers are overseas
The matter became somewhat less clear due to a follow-up comment that the servers holding the bank data are overseas and that the FBI would need support from its local agents and allies.
Additionally, the significance of the accounts being ‘encrypted’ similarly remains unclear given that, in the age of digital banking, all bank accounts should have some encryption as protection.
Are encrypted crypto accounts involved?
Some commenters on social media X have also speculated that the accounts in question may be related to cryptocurrency exchanges such as Binance and Kraken.
Again, this speculation aligns with the nature of crypto exchanges, where high-level encryption and security measures are fundamental to their operations.
Given the rise of digital assets and the importance of encryption in protecting these holdings, it is plausible that the reference to ‘encrypted’ accounts points towards involvement with cryptocurrency platforms.
Are Trump assassination attempt conspiracies Fake News?
Either way, the news came out at a time of heightened national sensitivity as the Secret Service is facing criticism for failing to properly secure Trump during the Pennsylvania rally, and with allegations of foreign – and even domestic – involvement running rampant.
Some of the most frequently mentioned theories concern the possible involvement of Iranian authorities.
Not only do Iran and the U.S. view each other as foes, but the first Trump administration carried out the assassination of the Iranian special forces general Qasem Soleimani, who is viewed as a hero domestically.
Some have even alleged possible involvement of Ukrainian authorities, as Trump is known for his admiration of President Putin and opposition to the aid sent to Ukraine.
On the domestic front, not only did President Biden’s comments about putting Trump in the bull’s eye draw criticism, but a massive short position – later claimed to be a clerical error – placed against Trump Media (NASDAQ: DJT) shortly before the attack fueled the theorists’ fires.
