Secret Service Admits Failures in July 13 Trump Assassination Attempt in Butler, Calls for Overhaul

Sep 20, 2024, 05:55 PM

Acting Secret Service Director Ronald L. Rowe Jr. has urged Congress to heavily invest in the agency following two assassination attempts against former President Donald Trump. In a press briefing at 1 p.m., Rowe admitted to significant failures in the agency's protective operations, particularly during the July 13 shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The internal investigation revealed communication gaps and a lack of diligence, resulting in a breach of security protocols. Rowe emphasized the need for a 'paradigm shift' in how the Secret Service conducts its operations and promised that employees responsible for the failures would be held accountable. The agency's review highlighted that local law enforcement was not given clear guidance or direction, contributing to the security lapses. Rowe's statements underscore the urgency for improved protective measures and accountability within the Secret Service, citing complacency as a major issue.