Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle Faces Calls for Resignation Over Trump Security Lapse, Diversity Focus

Jul 14, 2024, 02:07 PM

Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle is facing calls for resignation following a security lapse involving former President Donald Trump. Critics argue that Cheatle's focus on diversity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, particularly the goal to have 30% female recruits by 2030, has compromised the agency's effectiveness. Reports indicate that Cheatle has prioritized hiring women and diverse candidates since taking her position in 2022. The scrutiny intensified after an incident where a female agent struggled to holster her weapon during an attempted attack on Trump. Cheatle has defended her approach, emphasizing the importance of diversity in the Secret Service. According to a CBS News report from May 2023, the agency experienced a 48% turnover rate last year.