Director Kimberly Cheatle testifies before Congress, acknowledging a significant breakdown within the agency and detailing steps being taken to address the shortcomings.
Washington, D.C. - Director Kimberly Cheatle of the Secret Service appeared before the Oversight Committee on Thursday, acknowledging a "significant operational failure" in the agency's response to the July 13th assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.
"This was an extraordinary incident that could have had catastrophic consequences," Cheatle testified. "We have conducted a thorough review of our actions and identified several areas where we need to improve our operations."
Secret Service Chief Admits 'Operational Failure' in July 13th Trump Assassination Attempt
According to Cheatle, the agency's investigation has revealed that there was a breakdown in communication between the Secret Service and local law enforcement agencies, leading to a delayed response to the attack. Additionally, she admitted that the agency's intelligence gathering system failed to identify the potential threat posed by the suspect.
"We are taking immediate steps to address these deficiencies," Cheatle said. "We have increased our coordination with local law enforcement and federal agencies, and we are enhancing our intelligence capabilities."
The Secret Service has also launched a comprehensive internal review of its policies and procedures, Cheatle testified. The goal is to identify any systemic weaknesses that may have contributed to the failure to prevent the attack.
Cheatle emphasized that the agency is committed to restoring the public's trust in its ability to protect the President and other high-profile individuals. She pledged to implement any necessary changes to ensure the safety of those under the Secret Service's protection.
"We are determined to learn from this experience and come out of it stronger than ever before," Cheatle said. "The Secret Service is an essential part of our nation's defense, and we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and effectiveness."
The Oversight Committee members present at the hearing expressed their concerns about the Secret Service's failures and questioned Cheatle on the agency's plans to address them. Some members called for increased oversight and transparency from the Secret Service, while others suggested a reassessment of the agency's overall mission and responsibilities.
Cheatle welcomed the oversight and scrutiny, saying that it was an important part of the accountability process. She reiterated her commitment to working with Congress to improve the Secret Service and ensure its continued effectiveness in protecting the President and other high-profile individuals.
The Secret Service is an agency within the Department of Homeland Security responsible for protecting the President, the Vice President, and their families, as well as other high-profile individuals, such as foreign dignitaries, presidential candidates, and former Presidents. The agency also has a role in protecting the White House and other federal buildings.
