The Aftermath
There was a big news conference with the governor, mayor, police, ATF, FBI, DA, and some others. The main messages were that all agencies worked together quite well, without competition for credit, etc. and the citizens were vigilant and cooperated. Also, there was emphasis on the local police running into danger and that the FBI agents in the field were focused on this case. My spidey senses went off as the FBI spoke because it seemed to me he was saying we are doing our job here on the ground and for the people and the unspoken part was that they were not part of the DC mess. Another thing that struck me as odd - the lead guy from the FBI was wearing a new stetson (cowboy hat). He was the only one wearing a hat. The only time I see these hats in a formal conference is with DPS (Department of Public Safety) or the Texas Rangers. There could be many reasons, but I still wonder why.
As the investigation still is open, little info was shared. The bomber was a 24-yr-old white male who attended the local community college and had a job. He lived in an adjacent small community and had 2 roommates who seemed to know nothing about his actions. His family is in Colorado and likewise does not know how he got this point. He left a 25 minute confession on his phone that somehow survived the blast in his car. I have to say the confessional seemed quite complete, which struck me as odd. He said his actions were not racially or terror motivated and went on to describe his personal issues. He also described and listed all the bombs he created, so all are accounted for. He did not give any reasons for his selection process.
My takeaway
Everything about the bomber screams manipulation by other sources, and his confessional was oddly complete.
Much has been said about underlying messages. What I observe is that the officials took the tack of we are here to work with you to keep you safe. It was not about reliance on officials, but rather, partnering with them. Interesting, as that is the only way it would go down here.
Also, our mayor tried going the personal route with his message, but no one else supported it. His suggestion was that we all get to know our neighbors.