Donald Trump accuses media of political point scoring after fan Cesar Sayoc charged over mail bombs sent to Democrats

US President Donald Trump said on Friday that he does not think he bears blame for the serial bombing attempts by one of his devoted fans, and accused the news media of using the thwarted attacks to score political points against him.

“No, not at all,” Trump said, when asked by reporters whether he is to blame for the actions of the alleged bomber, who targeted national Democrats and figures who have been critical of Trump on television and elsewhere.
Later, at a political rally in Charlotte, North Carolina, Trump accused the media of exploiting the incident.

“We have seen an effort by the media in recent hours to use the sinister actions of one individual to score political points against me and the Republican Party,” the president said.

Suspect Cesar Sayoc, 56, was arrested in a business’ car park in Plantation, Florida, on Friday morning. His white van, impounded at the scene, was plastered with pro-Trump stickers and photos, and other messages targeting his critics, including Hillary Clinton and CNN. Pipe bombs addressed to both were among 13 that law enforcers have recovered.

Justice Department officials announced five federal charges against Sayoc, and revealed that DNA and a fingerprint found on an envelope package helped them identify the suspect after a five-day, coast-to-coast investigation. Even as he was arrested and charged, investigators scrutinised new suspicious packages believed to be tied to his plot.

Federal Bureau of Investigation officials did not disclose a motive, although Attorney General Jeff Sessions suggested politics may have played a role, noting Sayoc appeared to be a “partisan.” Those who saw him in the neighbourhood, unmistakable in a white van plastered with Trump’s image and political stickers, described him as unsettling and troubled.