New footage has raised fresh questions about the lone-wolf narrative surrounding the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump.

Emerging video evidence and cross-national communications have complicated congressional investigation into the assassination attempt, suggesting to some -- including Republican Rep. Mike Walz -- that potential accomplices were involved, as the Floridian reports.

Approximately two hours before the incident at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, Thomas Crooks was captured on new footage at the event site.

This development has fueled discussions about the extent of his preparations and possible collaboration with others.

Waltz Expresses Concern on National Television

During an appearance on Fox News's America's Newsroom, Waltz (R-FL) expressed doubts about the FBI's assessment that Crooks acted alone. Waltz is part of a bipartisan task force dedicated to investigating the assassination attempt.

He highlighted the lack of detailed information provided by federal agencies regarding Crooks' motives and the accessibility of his encrypted digital communications. These factors, according to Waltz, cast doubt on the conclusion that Crooks had no accomplices.

Challenges in Accessing Encrypted Communications

Officials have reported that Crooks used encrypted messaging services to communicate with individuals from Belgium, Germany, and New Zealand.

Despite multiple briefings, the FBI and Secret Service have yet to access all of these accounts or fully explain the motives behind his actions.

"It is shocking how little we know. They still are not ready to talk about Crooks' motivation. They have not been able to get into all of those encrypted accounts yet," said Waltz.

Questions about the logistical capabilities of Crooks have also arisen, particularly how he managed to construct and deploy sophisticated explosive devices without alerting authorities.

"In the same breath, they are very quick to say he acted alone. How did he build those [improvised explosive devices] and not trigger any type of alert with a remote detonator that was fully functional? How was he able to establish those encrypted accounts, and why? What were they doing?" Waltz remarked.

Separate but Simultaneous Security Concerns

In a separate but relevant incident, Asif Merchant, a Pakistani national and illegal alien, was arrested for orchestrating another assassination plot against Trump, purportedly under Iran's direction. This plot involved recruiting hitmen and utilizing protesters as distractions, although no direct link to Crooks has been identified.

Rep. Cory Mills (R-FL) has launched an independent investigation into the assassination attempt. He voiced concerns about the lengthy delays in the investigation, complicating efforts to discern between negligence and intentional misconduct.

"We have determined that we have waited so long that the idea of determining and making it distinguishable from gross negligence or criminal negligence from purposeful intent is going to be almost impossible," stated Rep. Mills.

Legislators Demand Thorough Investigation

The skepticism aired by Waltz and Mills underscores a broader bipartisan call for a more thorough investigation into the events surrounding the attempted assassination of Donald Trump. Both congressmen argue that a clearer understanding of the facts is crucial for national security and public trust in government institutions.

As the investigation unfolds, further inquiries are expected into the nature of Crooks' international communications and his technical acumen in evading detection by law enforcement.

The resolution of these questions is seen as vital for assessing the security protocols currently in place and preventing future incidents.

The complexity of this case continues to unfold as federal investigators piece together the myriad elements that led to that fateful day in Butler, Pennsylvania.