On Monday, a prominent Senate Democrat condemned the Biden-Harris administration for “stonewalling” requests for critical information concerning the recent assassination attempts on former President Donald Trump and issues with the U.S. Secret Service’s capabilities. As Congress scrambles to avoid a looming federal shutdown, the investigation into the second assassination plot on Trump has exposed potential deficiencies in the Secret Service, which has already been grappling with underfunding and staffing shortages.
The second attempt took place on Sunday while Trump was playing a round at his golf course near Palm Beach. A Secret Service agent spotted an individual with a rifle near the golf course’s perimeter. Then, other agents swiftly responded, firing at the suspect, who fled in a black Nissan but was later apprehended by authorities. The suspect turned out to be Ryan Routh, who has an extensive criminal record and appears to be vehemently anti-Trump.
Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), who chairs the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations within the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, delivered sharp criticism of the Department of Homeland Security. He accused them of being “almost derelict in its duty by resisting our requests for documents, evidence and information that are necessary to investigate.”
Blumenthal expressed his growing frustration, stating to Fox News that he was “angry” at the lack of cooperation from DHS. He emphasized the need for them to be more “forthcoming” in handling critical matters. “We may need to require more cooperation from them. And we have the power to do so through the compulsory process. In other words, the subpoena power,” Blumenthal told reporters on Monday.
Sen. Ron Johnson, (R-WI), the ranking member of the committee, supported Sen. Blumenthal’s view of the DHS’s behavior. Johnson railed the Biden-Harris admin’s secretive approach, saying, “They’re holding all their cards close to the vest.” He also pointed out the negative consequences of their actions, stating, “Their withholding of information is driving suspicion and driving conspiracy theories.”
Last week, Blumenthal disclosed that the forthcoming report on the initial assassination attempt against former President Trump is expected to leave Americans “shocked” and “appalled.” He also criticized the Secret Service for its mishandling of the situation, highlighting major security failures. Additionally, Blumenthal condemned the Department of Homeland Security for withholding critical information. The fallout from these lapses has led to the suspension of multiple Secret Service agents and several leadership resignations.
WATCH:
The agency has taken disciplinary action against five agents from the 60-member detail assigned to Trump, sources report, suspending them after a 20-year-old assailant nearly took Trump’s life while killing a rallygoer and wounding two more. RealClearPolitics has been covering the ongoing turmoil within the Secret Service, highlighting significant issues affecting its upper ranks.
The agency’s presidential details, which are among the most prestigious and demanding assignments for agents, have been under scrutiny since the July 13th shooting in Butler, Pa., at a rally there. The incident has exposed further security lapses and misconduct among agents. Earlier this month, a bipartisan House committee conducted a thorough review of the agency’s personnel and procedures. Friday’s suspensions of the five agents seem to be a direct response to the pressures faced by Acting Director Robert Rowe to implement accountability.
Multiple agents from the Secret Service’s Pittsburgh Field Office have been placed on administrative leave, according to separate sources. This move highlights the urgency for Acting Director Robert Rowe to demonstrate control and reassure lawmakers following the resignation of former Director Kimberly Cheatle.
Administrative leave is used for federal employees who are temporarily removed from their duties due to investigations into misconduct or for medical or mental health reasons. During this period, employees typically continue to receive pay and benefits, although this is at the discretion of senior officials. Another group of agents, despite also being involved in the security arrangements for the fatal rally in Butler, has been assigned to continue protecting Trump, the outlet reported.
Disclaimer: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author’s opinion.