Frozen Response: Republican Lawmaker Questions Law Enforcement Action in Trump Assassination Attempt

House task force chairman Mike Kelly expresses concerns over delayed police response during the assassination attempt on former President Trump, calling for accountability and improved preparedness.

Pennsylvania Republican Congressman Mike Kelly, chairman of the House task force investigating the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, has raised questions about what he perceived as a sluggish response from law enforcement during the incident. Kelly's concerns stem from his on-site visit to the Butler Farm Show fairgrounds in Butler, Pennsylvania, where the attack took place, killing one attendee and injuring two others.

During his visit, Kelly pointed to the apparent delay in authorizing a sniper to take the shot at the assailant, Thomas Crooks, who had reportedly been spotted by snipers 90 minutes before he opened fire on the rally. According to Kelly, this hesitation raises concerns about the decision-making process and overall preparedness.

Frozen Response: Republican Lawmaker Questions Law Enforcement Action in Trump Assassination Attempt

The bipartisan task force, established by a House resolution passed with overwhelming support, is tasked with investigating the shooting and has interviewed federal, local, and state officials, as well as witnesses. Kelly emphasized that it is premature to conclude any criminal negligence in the incident but stressed the importance of thorough scrutiny.

Multiple members of the task force, including Ranking Member Jason Crow, a decorated veteran, noted the unsecured lines of sight during the rally. Crow highlighted the need to restore public confidence in the protection of leaders and address the concerns raised by the incident.

Frozen Response: Republican Lawmaker Questions Law Enforcement Action in Trump Assassination Attempt

The investigation has focused on understanding Crooks' motive and whether he had any accomplices, although the FBI has ruled out any current indication of co-conspirators. The task force has the authority to subpoena federal agencies for information relevant to their investigation.

Kelly reiterated his belief that the incident underscores the importance of preparedness. He expressed concerns about the apparent lapse in communication and urged a swift resolution to improve future response mechanisms to such threats.

Frozen Response: Republican Lawmaker Questions Law Enforcement Action in Trump Assassination Attempt

The task force is continuing its investigation, gathering evidence and interviewing key individuals. Kelly's concerns highlight the critical need to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the assassination attempt and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.