U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle has resigned following intense bipartisan pressure during a House Oversight hearing. Her resignation came after the agency faced severe criticism for its handling of a security breach at a Butler, Pennsylvania rally for former President Donald Trump, where a shooting occurred.
Cheatle informed Secret Service employees of her decision to step down through an email on Tuesday morning. She stated, “The Secret Service’s mission to protect our leaders was not fulfilled on July 13th. I take full responsibility for this lapse in security.”
Despite her initial refusal to resign, Cheatle acknowledged the intense scrutiny the agency faced over the incident.
During her testimony, Cheatle admitted she had not visited the site of the shooting and that no one had been dismissed since the event. She failed to provide a detailed timeline or address specific questions about the actions of the would-be assassin, often citing the ongoing FBI investigation.
This response led to frustration from lawmakers on both sides. Chairman James Comer (R-KY) said, “The Secret Service has a no-fail mission yet it failed historically on Director Cheatle’s watch.” Comer emphasized the need for accountability and a thorough review to prevent future security failures.
The House Oversight Committee, led by Comer and ranking member Jamie Raskin (D-MD), formally called for Cheatle’s resignation after she failed to provide satisfactory answers regarding the security breach. Investigations by the FBI, Secret Service, Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and DHS’s inspector general are underway.
DHS inspector general Joseph Cuffari announced two probes into the Secret Service’s actions, focusing on the security process for Trump’s rally and the preparedness of the USSS Counter Sniper Team.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) also announced the formation of a bipartisan task force to investigate the security lapses. “The task force will have subpoena power to ensure accountability and prevent such failures in the future,” Johnson stated.
In a statement, President Joe Biden praised Cheatle’s service, highlighting her dedication and integrity. However, Johnson responded, “Accountability begins at the top. Cheatle’s resignation is a step toward ensuring the Secret Service can meet its protective mission.”
Cheatle’s tenure with the Bidens dates back to the Obama administration, where she served on Jill Biden’s security detail. Her resignation marks a critical point for the Secret Service as it addresses significant security concerns and works to restore public trust.
