The Secret Service director, Kimberly Cheatle, announced her resignation following the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump that raised concerns about the agency’s ability to protect current and former presidents. Cheatle, who had been in the position since August 2022, faced mounting pressure to step down after investigations were launched into how the shooter was able to get close to Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.
In an email to staff obtained by The Associated Press, Cheatle took responsibility for the security lapse and stated that she was stepping down as director. Despite her resignation, the scrutiny of the agency is expected to continue as investigations into the security failures on July 13 unfold.
During a congressional hearing, Cheatle faced criticism from both Democrats and Republicans for the security lapses that allowed the 20-year-old shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, to get within yards of the stage where Trump was speaking. While Cheatle acknowledged the agency was aware of a suspicious person before the shooting, she failed to provide specific details about the investigation and security protocols.
Following the incident, calls for accountability were made across the political spectrum, with congressional committees initiating investigations and top leaders urging Cheatle to resign. President Joe Biden ordered an independent review of security at the rally, and the Secret Service’s inspector general launched an investigation into the matter.
Cheatle, who served in the Secret Service for 27 years and previously held leadership positions within the agency, returned to head the organization in 2022. Despite facing criticism for the security failures, Cheatle had previously stated that she was not resigning and emphasized the agency’s responsibility for protecting former presidents like Trump.
As the agency continues to face scrutiny and investigations unfold, the focus remains on improving security protocols and ensuring the safety of current and former presidents. Cheatle’s resignation marks a turning point for the Secret Service, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency in protecting the nation’s leaders.
