The House Oversight Committee announced a hearing on Monday to examine the U.S. Secret Service’s response to the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania. The hearing, scheduled for July 22 at 10:00am, comes amid reports of poor protection and a lack of resources assigned to Trump’s detail.
Committee Chairman James Comer (R-KY) sent a letter to U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle on July 13, praising the bravery of Secret Service agents who protected Trump during the shooting. However, reports have raised concerns about the Secret Service’s handling of the situation, including allegations that resources were diverted from Trump to First Lady Jill Biden.
RealClearPolitics‘ Susan Crabtree reported that Secret Service resources were redirected to accommodate Biden’s travel, while NBC News claimed that the agency was aware of “potential vulnerability” in the days leading up to the event.
Representative Cory Mills (R-FL) described the assassination attempt as a “massive security breach.” In response, the Secret Service denied limiting Trump’s detail.
Additionally, there is bipartisan support for bolstering Secret Service protections for Trump, President Joe Biden, and Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., who has repeatedly requested enhanced security measures. Representatives Ritchie Torres (D-NY) and Mike Lawler (R-NY) are introducing a bill to increase protections, which could provide necessary resources and support to ensure the safety of these individuals.
