US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle will face tough questions today in a congressional hearing concerning her agency’s failure to prevent an assassination attempt on Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump. The incident occurred earlier this month at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where Mr. Trump was wounded in the ear and one attendee was killed.
Critics, including top Republicans like House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, have called for Cheatle’s resignation. The House Judiciary Committee has evidence that the Secret Service lacked proper resources due to staffing shortages caused by other events.
FBI Director Christopher Wray will also be questioned by the House Judiciary Committee. In response to the shooting, President Joe Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor. Despite pressure to resign, Cheatle remains committed to transparency and leading the Secret Service through internal investigations.
Republican Senator Marco Rubio emphasized the importance of clarity and accountability in such matters. The ongoing controversy highlights the need for a thorough investigation and possible reforms within the agency.