
The Secret Service is facing criticism following an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, managed to position himself on a rooftop with a clear view of Trump and fired a shot that grazed his ear. Rally-goers, including Michael Difrischia, noticed Crooks scaling a building and attempted to alert the Secret Service and police for several minutes before the shooting occurred.
Despite their efforts, Crooks was able to take his shot, leading many to question the efficacy of the Secret Service’s security measures. Difrischia and other witnesses described frantically pointing out the shooter’s location to law enforcement, only to be met with confusion. Video footage from the event shows attendees shouting warnings before the shots were fired.
The Secret Service returned fire, ultimately killing Crooks, but the incident has sparked a debate about their preparedness and response. Former Secret Service agent Dan Bongino criticized the agency’s performance, calling it a “catastrophic failure.” He noted that requests for increased security around Trump had been repeatedly denied by Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle.
The FBI is also questioning how the shooter was able to get so close and fire multiple rounds. Rep. Mike Waltz (R-FL) and House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-KY) have both called for a thorough investigation and a briefing from the Secret Service. Waltz mentioned reliable sources indicating that requests for stronger protection for Trump had been denied, raising concerns about potential negligence.
As the investigation continues, many are demanding answers and accountability from the Secret Service to ensure such lapses do not happen again, especially with the upcoming Republican National Convention.