U.S. lawmakers have intensified scrutiny on Donald Trump’s security arrangements following a second attempted attack on the former president within 60 days.
At a Glance
- Second assassination attempt on Donald Trump in two months sparks security concerns.
- Representative Mike Waltz and others question Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe’s assurances about protection levels.
- Congressional task force formed to revamp security protocols for Trump.
- The suspect was apprehended without incident, and no immediate public safety concern was found.
Heightened Security Measures for Trump After Second Threat in 60 Days
Following a second attempted attack on former President Donald Trump within two months, U.S. lawmakers are scrutinizing his security arrangements. An armed suspect, Thomas Matthew Crooks, was apprehended without incident near Trump’s vicinity. The episode has heightened concerns and spurred calls for revamping security protocols to better protect Trump and avert similar threats.
New details about the attack are emerging, revealing missteps by the Secret Service and rally attendees’ efforts to alert authorities. The U.S. Secret Service had been notified of suspicious activity 20 minutes before the incident, but the gunman still managed to carry out the attack.
The incident has resulted in casualties, including the death of a rallygoer, Corey Comperatore, who was trying to protect his family. Trump and two others sustained injuries. This has led to increased scrutiny on Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe, with criticism mounting over security lapses.
Scrutiny on Secret Service Practices
Ronald Rowe, the Acting Secret Service Director, faces criticism for security failures that allowed the shooter to fire from a rooftop. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas has also acknowledged the agency’s responsibility, calling the incident a “security failure” and announcing an independent review.
“We are speaking of a failure,” Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas said in remarks about the attack.
Congressional Republicans, including Representative Mike Waltz, seek to investigate thoroughly the gaps that allowed the assault to occur. The investigation centers on understanding how the shooter managed to bring an AR-style semi-automatic rifle to the rally undetected.
Calls for Increased Protection
Concerns about the adequacy of protection for Trump have led to changes in his security detail. Critics argue that the assurances about the former president’s safety do not match the current level of threats he faces. Measures are being taken to ensure more comprehensive protection, especially as Trump continues public appearances and campaigns.
“The Homeland Security secretary, Alejandro N. Mayorkas, said that ‘adjustments have been made’ not only to Mr. Trump’s protection detail but also to those of President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.”
Homeland Security has announced increased security measures for Donald Trump, President Biden, and Vice President Kamala Harris in response to this and similar threats. The U.S. Secret Service is cooperating with federal, state, and local agencies to understand and prevent further attacks.
