'Most significant operational failure': US Secret Service chief takes 'responsibility' for security lapse at Trump rally

In her defense, Cheatle explained that security for Trump had been increasing due to evolving threats.

US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle on Monday admitted before Congress that her agency failed in its mission to prevent the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

Cheatle acknowledged the lapse during her testimony before the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, stating, "On July 13, we failed. As the director of the United States Secret Service, I take full responsibility for any security lapse".

The July 13 incident saw 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks open fire on Trump with an AR-style rifle during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Crooks, who acted alone, was shot dead by a Secret Service sniper shortly after firing the first of eight shots. The attack wounded Trump in the ear, killed a 50-year-old firefighter, and seriously injured two rally attendees.

Cheatle described the event as "the most significant operational failure of the Secret Service in decades" and faced bipartisan pressure, including calls for her resignation from Republican committee chairman James Comer. Comer launched a scathing attack on the Secret Service, claiming the attack was "preventable" and accusing the agency of becoming "the face of incompetence."

In her defense, Cheatle explained that security for Trump had been increasing due to evolving threats. She, however, acknowledged that the Secret Service's response had been inadequate. The agency is currently facing scrutiny over whether it was properly resourced for the event, following claims that staffing shortages were exacerbated by other high-profile events.

The hearing marks the beginning of congressional oversight into the failed protection effort. FBI Director Christopher Wray is scheduled to testify before the House Judiciary Committee, and House Speaker Mike Johnson is set to announce a bipartisan task force for further investigation.

The incident has intensified political tensions, with Democratic Representative Gerry Connolly highlighting the polarised nature of the nation. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden, who recently endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor, has vowed to serve through the end of his term.