A congressional inquiry has concluded that “inexcusable” failures in the Secret Service’s operations and response led to the attempt to assassinate former US President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024.
Investigation Findings
The US Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee released a report criticizing the Secret Service for a “cascade of preventable failures” that nearly cost President Trump his life. The committee’s Republican chairman, Rand Paul, stated that the agency failed to act on credible intelligence and didn’t coordinate effectively with local law enforcement. Despite these failures, no one has been fired, sparking calls for accountability and reform.
Incident Details
During the rally, a gunman, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Crooks, shot at Trump, grazing his ear. One bystander, Corey Comperatore, was killed, and two others were wounded before a government sniper killed the gunman. Trump has since reflected on the incident, saying “mistakes were made” but expressing satisfaction with the investigation.
Aftermath and Reforms
The Secret Service has acknowledged communication, technical, and human errors, and has implemented reforms, including:
– *Improved Coordination*: Enhanced coordination between different law enforcement bodies
– *Aerial Surveillance*: Establishment of a division dedicated to aerial surveillance
– *Disciplinary Action*: Six staff members have been disciplined, with punishments ranging from 10 to 42 days’ suspension without pay
Congressional Response
The House Committee on Homeland Security has also been investigating the incident, with Chairman Mark E. Green subpoenaing Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for documents related to the security efforts surrounding the rally. The committee seeks to understand the security failures and ensure accountability.
Task Force Investigation
A task force led by Chairman Mike Kelly and Ranking Member Jason Crow released a final report in December 2024, outlining findings and policy recommendations. The report emphasized the need for reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The incident has sparked intense scrutiny of the Secret Service’s security protocols, with lawmakers calling for accountability and improved measures to protect public figures.
