Senate Report Condemns Secret Service's Handling of Attempted Trump Assassination

A Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee report has found fault with the Secret Service's response to the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump. The report highlights significant security failures and lack of clear communication, allowing the gunman to evade security measures and fire shots at the rally.

Washington, D.C. - The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee has released an interim report criticizing the Secret Service's handling of the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump in July 2022. The report uncovers major flaws in security planning and communication, leading to the gunman's ability to open fire on the rally.

According to the report, the Secret Service failed to provide clear instructions to state and local law enforcement officials regarding the security needs of the building from which the gunman shot. Additionally, the agency did not ensure real-time information sharing with its local partners.

Senate Report Condemns Secret Service's Handling of Attempted Trump Assassination

The report raises concerns about the lack of law enforcement presence atop the AGR building, which afforded the gunman a clear line of sight to the rally stage. Despite its proximity to the stage, the building remained unguarded, highlighting a significant security lapse.

The panel's findings underscore the need for comprehensive security measures and effective communication between the Secret Service and local authorities responsible for protecting high-profile events.

Senate Report Condemns Secret Service's Handling of Attempted Trump Assassination

Meanwhile, the House task force investigating the attempted assassination has faced internal division. Democratic members skipped the second portion of the panel's first hearing, which featured two Republican lawmakers conducting their own "parallel" investigation.

Democratic lawmakers expressed frustration over being notified late about the additional panel and their inability to present their witnesses. However, Republican task force leaders downplayed the absence, stating that it would not hinder their bipartisan mission.

Senate Report Condemns Secret Service's Handling of Attempted Trump Assassination

The task force has interviewed numerous law enforcement officials and examined over 2,800 pages of documents from the Secret Service. Lawmakers have emphasized the importance of improving security protocols and addressing communication gaps that contributed to the incident.

The Senate report's release has sparked further scrutiny of the Secret Service's operations. Acting Director Ronald Rowe is expected to face further questioning on the agency's security measures, particularly after recent funding increases allocated by Congress.

Senate Report Condemns Secret Service's Handling of Attempted Trump Assassination

The ongoing investigations highlight the urgent need for enhanced security measures and seamless cooperation between law enforcement agencies to safeguard high-profile individuals and prevent future assassination attempts.