Pipe bomb suspect claims he was influenced by 2020 election conspiracy theories

The individual arrested in connection with a 2021 pipe bomb scheme targeting political party offices in Washington, D.C., reportedly held beliefs in conspiracy theories about the 2020 presidential election. Sources familiar with the investigation told NBC that 30-year-old Brian Cole informed the FBI he subscribed to these theories.

Details about the specific conspiracies or the depth of Cole's convictions remain unclear, and federal authorities have not publicly stated a motive for his alleged actions. Cole faces charges including transporting an explosive device and attempting malicious destruction with explosives, according to a warrant issued on Wednesday. The intended targets were reportedly the headquarters of both the Republican National Committee (RNC) and Democratic National Committee (DNC).

The bombs were found early on January 6, though neither device detonated. Vice President-elect Kamala Harris was present in the DNC building at the time of the discovery. The uncovering of the devices occurred shortly before the Capitol was breached by rioters incited by former President Donald Trump's false claims that the 2020 election was fraudulent.

In January, congressional Republicans criticized the FBI for failing to identify the suspect over several years. In November, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino stated on X that the bureau had significantly increased resources devoted to tracking down the individual responsible. Earlier, Bongino had inaccurately described the pipe bomb case as a massive cover-up, suggesting the perpetrator was either an anti-Trump insider or part of an inside operation.

Author: Sophia Brooks