Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) grilled Acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe about the details of the July 13 assassination attempt on former President Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, as the agency faces heightened scrutiny over its culture, staffing, and morale.
The U.S. Secret Service (USSS) has come under intense scrutiny following the July 13 assassination attempt on former President Trump, with the shooting raising concerns about the agency's culture, staffing, and ability to protect its charges.
Secret Service Under Fire After Trump Assassination Attempt: 'Trying to Find Someone Who's Accountable Here'
Current and former USSS employees have voiced concerns about the agency being plagued by understaffing despite its budget increasing to $3 billion. USSS leaders are being questioned not only about the failures on July 13 in Butler, Pennsylvania, but also on their handling of team morale and their ability to recruit and retain talent.
"The team I was once proud to be a part of is something I have to now somehow hide as I move into my next career," wrote a USSS counter sniper in an internal email last week, read by Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) during a congressional hearing on the assassination attempt. "Who wants to hire a USSS [counter sniper] who failed? That's the public perception I'm now faced with."
Secret Service Under Fire After Trump Assassination Attempt: 'Trying to Find Someone Who's Accountable Here'
The counter sniper alleged a culture of "cover your a--" within the agency, with supervisors prioritizing their own protection over the safety of protectees.
Former President Trump is surrounded by Secret Service agents after shots were fired at a campaign rally, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
Secret Service Under Fire After Trump Assassination Attempt: 'Trying to Find Someone Who's Accountable Here'
Acting USSS Director Ronald Rowe Jr. expressed concern over the allegations, saying, "We need them." He acknowledged that emotions were running high within the agency and pledged to review concerns raised by employees.
The USSS employs approximately 7,689 staff, including 3,200 agents, 1,300 uniformed division officers, and over 2,000 support personnel. However, the agency has faced challenges in recruiting and retaining qualified agents.
Secret Service Under Fire After Trump Assassination Attempt: 'Trying to Find Someone Who's Accountable Here'
Former Secret Service agent Charles Marino cited "quality of life" issues, such as extensive travel, as reasons why agents are leaving the USSS. Rowe has also acknowledged the demanding lifestyle that agents face, with frequent travel and long hours.
Prospective recruits must meet stringent criteria, including a clean background, physical and mental health requirements, and a college degree. They undergo rigorous training before being assigned to field offices or protection details.
Secret Service Under Fire After Trump Assassination Attempt: 'Trying to Find Someone Who's Accountable Here'
Despite the challenges, the Secret Service remains dedicated to its mission of protecting high-level figures, including the President and former Presidents. However, the assassination attempt has highlighted the need for a thorough review of the agency's operations, staffing, and culture to ensure that it can effectively fulfill its responsibilities.
