Andy Biggs wants proof of safety preparations for Trump’s Pennsylvania rally after explosive hearing.
Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., is not satisfied with the testimony provided by U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle during Monday’s hearing and is demanding hard proof to back up her statements.
Following the tragic events at former President Donald Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where a 20-year-old gunman opened fire, killing one person and injuring two others, Biggs sent a letter to Cheatle requesting documentation concerning safety measures, security perimeters, personnel, and other law enforcement preparations for the event.
Trump himself narrowly escaped harm after being shot in the upper part of his right ear and swiftly moved offstage by Secret Service agents.
In his letter to Cheatle, Biggs expressed disbelief at how an assassin was able to gain access to a building with a direct line of sight to the rally stage and fire shots at the President. He questioned why the Secret Service failed to address this vulnerability or ensure the building’s security when it had been identified as a potential risk.
After a contentious hearing on Monday, during which Cheatle faced criticism for her vague answers, lawmakers from both parties voiced frustration. Some House Democrats have even called for Cheatle’s resignation.
Biggs, along with others, directly asked Cheatle to step down from her position, citing her lack of preparedness and transparency during the hearing.
As the House prepares for a vote on establishing a bipartisan commission to investigate the shooting, Biggs’ letter to Cheatle adds pressure on the Secret Service director to provide more detailed information about the events leading up to the tragic incident.
The House’s efforts to uncover the truth behind the assassination attempt have been further strengthened by Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas’ announcement of a 45-day independent review focused on the incident.
