In a recent testimony before the House of Representatives Oversight Committee, Kimberly Cheatle, the Director of the United States Secret Service, admitted a significant security lapse in protecting former President Donald Trump. Cheatle stated, “We failed,” and took full responsibility for the failure during the July 13 campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Cheatle described the incident as the “most significant operational failure at the Secret Service in decades.” Following the attempted assassination, Cheatle assured that security levels have been increased and will continue to rise in response to evolving threats. She emphasized that the Secret Service’s mission is crucial, focusing on “literally a matter of life and death,” rather than political matters.
The failed protection has led to intense scrutiny and calls for Cheatle’s resignation. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., has demanded answers and suggested that new leadership at the Secret Service would be a crucial step toward accountability.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has urged President Joe Biden to fire Cheatle, stressing that the incident nearly resulted in a tragic loss of life. Rep. Brendan Boyle, D-Pa., has also expressed a lack of confidence in Cheatle’s leadership in light of the evidence revealing “unacceptable operational failures.”
Cheatle, who was appointed by President Biden in August 2022, has stated she will not step down. She plans to focus on cooperating with ongoing investigations to address the security shortcomings.
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On July 13, Trump was attending a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, when gunshots were fired into the crowd. He was quickly evacuated to a safe location, but not before sustaining a visible injury. Reports indicate that Trump was bleeding from his right ear as he was removed from the stage. A White House spokesperson confirmed that the shooting resulted in the death of the suspect and at least one attendee, with two others injured.
Trump later addressed the incident, saying he was “fine” and receiving medical attention. He recounted the moment of the shooting, describing the bullet as “ripping through the skin” of his ear.
The Secret Service issued a statement acknowledging the incident and reassuring the public that protective measures were in place. They also noted that the investigation into the shooting is ongoing and further information will be provided as it becomes available.
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