Under increasing scrutiny over a significant security lapse, the United States Secret Service pledged on Monday to fully cooperate with an independent review following a dramatic assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.
The incident occurred on Saturday during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where Trump, at 78 years old, was injured but survived an attempt on his life. The attack has intensified national concerns as the country approaches the November presidential election.
“The Secret Service is working with all involved Federal, state, and local agencies to understand what happened, how it happened, and how we can prevent an incident like this from ever taking place again,” said Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle in a statement. She further emphasized, “We understand the importance of the independent review announced by President Biden yesterday and will participate fully. We will also work with the appropriate Congressional committees on any oversight action.”
During the rally, Trump was addressing the crowd when multiple gunshots rang out. As Trump clutched his ear, which was visibly injured, Secret Service agents quickly moved to protect him, escorting him to safety in a nearby vehicle. The shooter and a bystander were killed in the confrontation, and two spectators sustained injuries.
In response to the attack, President Joe Biden ordered a comprehensive review of the security measures at the rally and also for the upcoming Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where Trump is expected to be officially named the party’s presidential nominee.
The Secret Service faces mounting questions about how the gunman, armed with an assault rifle, managed to position himself on a rooftop approximately 500 feet (150 meters) from Trump, one of the most high-profile figures under protection. The scrutiny intensified after phone footage surfaced showing onlookers spotting the gunman on the roof and attempting to alert security before he began shooting.
In preparation for Trump’s appearance at the Republican National Convention on Monday, Cheatle assured that the Secret Service was enhancing security measures. She stated, “The Secret Service designs operational security plans for National Special Security Events to be dynamic in order to respond to a kinetic security environment and the most up-to-date intelligence from our partners.”
On Sunday, the Secret Service confirmed that it was “fully prepared” for the convention, demonstrating its commitment to safeguarding the event amid heightened security concerns.