On Monday, Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle testified before the House Oversight Committee regarding the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump on July 13, labeling it the agency’s “most significant operational failure” in decades. This was Cheatle’s first public appearance before Congress since the incident.
Key Points from Cheatle’s Testimony:
Opening Statement:
- Cheatle aimed to clarify previous comments, emphasizing that no blame should be placed on federal, state, and local law enforcement partners who assisted in Butler, Pennsylvania.
- She highlighted that the level of security for Trump had been increased well before the campaign, adapting to evolving threats.
Security Detail Requests:
- Cheatle faced questions about whether the Secret Service denied requests to enhance Trump’s security. She asserted that all requested assets for the event were provided.
- She referenced a report by The Washington Post, which claimed that Secret Service officials had turned down requests for additional resources in the two years preceding the shooting. Cheatle reiterated that no assets were denied for the event in question.
Event Planning:
- The Secret Service began planning for Trump’s rally as soon as it was announced, conducting a thorough assessment of the Butler Farm Show Grounds to identify potential security vulnerabilities.
- Cheatle mentioned that Trump’s protective resources were increased following the shooting incident.
Congressional Reaction:
Bipartisan Criticism:
- Cheatle’s acknowledgment of Secret Service failures did not quell the bipartisan criticism expected during the hearing.
- Speaker Mike Johnson was present, underscoring the high-profile nature of the session.
Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.):
- Comer demanded Cheatle’s resignation, expressing concerns over the Secret Service’s ability to protect its charges under her leadership.
Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.):
- Raskin indicated that the panel would ask “hard questions” and termed the shooting a “double failure.” He used his opening remarks to advocate for new gun laws.
Summary:
Director Kimberly Cheatle’s testimony before the House Oversight Committee shed light on the Secret Service’s handling of security for former President Trump, especially in light of the recent assassination attempt. Despite her efforts to clarify and defend the agency’s actions, she faced severe bipartisan criticism, raising questions about the Secret Service’s preparedness and resource allocation for high-profile protectees.
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