Following the resignation of U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) inspector general has launched two investigations into the agency’s handling of security at a recent Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. This development comes amid significant criticism of the Secret Service’s failure to prevent a shooting at the event.
Cheatle stepped down after intense scrutiny from a House Oversight hearing. In her resignation email to employees, she admitted, “We fell short on our mission on July 13th. I accept full responsibility for the security lapse.” Her resignation followed mounting bipartisan calls for her to step down due to the agency’s inadequate response to the incident.
During the hearing, Cheatle admitted she had not visited the site of the shooting and that no one had been terminated since the event. Lawmakers were frustrated by her lack of detailed responses, often citing the ongoing FBI investigation into the actions of the would-be assassin.
Chairman James Comer (R-KY) criticized Cheatle’s leadership, stating, “The Secret Service has a no-fail mission yet it failed historically on Director Cheatle’s watch.” He called for a comprehensive review to prevent future security breaches.
The House Oversight Committee, led by Comer and ranking member Jamie Raskin (D-MD), formally requested Cheatle’s resignation, citing her failure to provide adequate answers. Multiple investigations by the FBI, Secret Service, DHS, and DHS’s inspector general are now underway.
DHS inspector general Joseph Cuffari announced two specific probes: one examining the security process for Trump’s rally and another assessing the preparedness of the USSS Counter Sniper Team.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) announced the creation of a bipartisan task force to investigate the security failures. “The task force will be empowered with subpoena authority to find the facts and ensure accountability,” Johnson said.
Despite Cheatle’s resignation, President Joe Biden commended her service, stating, “She has selflessly dedicated her career to protecting our nation.” However, Johnson emphasized, “Accountability begins at the top. Cheatle’s resignation is a necessary step.”
Cheatle’s association with the Bidens began during the Obama administration when she protected Jill Biden. Her resignation highlights the need for significant improvements within the Secret Service to regain public confidence and ensure effective protection for national leaders.
