Secret Service Requires ‘Fundamental Reform,’ Panel Says After Trump Assassination Attempt
WASHINGTON (AP) — An independent review panel investigating the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign rally has called for “fundamental reform” within the U.S. Secret Service. The report warns that without significant changes, another incident like the one in Butler, Pennsylvania, could occur again.
The panel’s findings criticized the agency for lapses in communication and inadequate security measures, noting the failure to secure the building from which the gunman fired. The report also highlighted deeper structural issues, including a lack of preparedness for the unique threats posed to Trump and a problematic culture within the Secret Service focused on doing “more with less.”
Released on Thursday, the 52-page report specifically faults the agency for mistakes leading up to the July 13 rally in Butler. It further emphasizes the need for new leadership from outside the agency to restore focus on its core protective mission. In a letter accompanying the report, the panel addressed Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, stating, “The Secret Service as an agency requires fundamental reform to carry out its mission. Without that reform, the Independent Review Panel believes another Butler can and will happen again.”
The Incident at the Butler Rally
During the rally, gunman Thomas Michael Crooks opened fire from the roof of a nearby building, killing one attendee and wounding two others. Trump, who sustained a minor injury to his ear, was quickly escorted off stage by Secret Service agents. This shooting, along with a previous security breach at a Florida golf course where a gunman failed to target Trump, has sparked public concern and intensified scrutiny of the agency.
Broader Investigations and Calls for Change
The independent review was conducted by a panel of four former law enforcement officials with national and state government experience. Their findings align with investigations by Congress, Homeland Security’s internal oversight body, and the Secret Service’s own inquiries, all of which highlight serious deficiencies in the agency’s protective operations.
The panel’s recommendations include comprehensive reforms and the introduction of external leadership to rebuild trust and ensure the agency can effectively respond to evolving threats.
The recent security failures have put the Secret Service in crisis, raising questions about whether the agency is adequately equipped to protect high-profile political figures in today’s climate.
Source : Swifteradio.com
