Secret Service director admits failure but won’t resign

Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle admitted before Congress that her agency had failed in protecting former President Trump. During her testimony before the House Oversight Committee, Cheatle faced tough questions from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers. Despite calls for her resignation, Cheatle has chosen to remain in her position.

In her opening statement, Cheatle acknowledged the failure of the Secret Service on July 13th and took full responsibility for any security lapses. She emphasized the agency’s cooperation with ongoing investigations and vowed to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. Despite accepting responsibility, Cheatle asserted her belief that she is the best person to lead the Secret Service at present.

Cheatle made it clear that her testimony should not be seen as a criticism of local law enforcement or other security partners who collaborated with the Secret Service during the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. In response to questions from Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., about the security measures in place, Cheatle did not provide specific details due to ongoing investigations.

Representative James Comer questioned the presence of a Secret Service agent on the roof where the shooter gained access during the rally. Cheatle evaded the question and clarified that the building in question was not within the security perimeter around Trump’s event. When Rep. Jamie Raskin inquired about the identification of the shooter as a suspicious individual before Trump’s appearance on stage, Cheatle explained that while the shooter was considered suspicious, he was not yet deemed a threat.

Throughout the hearing, Cheatle faced hours of questioning from lawmakers. Chairman Comer expressed his belief that Cheatle should resign but acknowledged her decision to continue in her role. He emphasized the committee’s commitment to seeking clarity on the events leading to the security breach.