The details so far remain scant, with the driver’s possible motive and plans still unclear. According to ABC News, Mr Kandula flew from Missouri to Dulles International Airport, rented the truck and drove towards the White House with intentions of harming the president. Mr Kandula reportedly told law enforcement officers he wanted to take over the government.
Newsweek reached out to the White House via email for comment. When asked to confirm media reports that Kandula was not previously on any FBI watch lists, a spokesperson for the bureau told Newsweek that the agency could not comment.
When asked about the flag he showed at the scene, Kandula confirmed it was a swastika, and said he bought it online because "Nazis have a great history."
When asked what he favored about Nazis, he said that he admires their "authoritarian nature, eugenics and their one world order." In response to being asked if he looks up to any leaders, he said: "Hitler, because he was a strong leader."
There is no evidence that either the photo or the screengrab taken from the video was altered in any way prior to publication, while the video clearly shows that the flag was outside the van.
Court documents allege that Kandula got out of the truck and went into the back where he pulled a red and white flag with a Nazi swastika in the center.
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