Panel Calls for Reform of Secret Service

An independent review panel has called for significant reforms within the U.S. Secret Service following a failed assassination attempt on Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13. The panel identified systemic issues, including poor communication and a lack of critical thinking among agents, which contributed to the incident where a gunman grazed Trump’s ear and killed one attendee. The report highlights the agency's bureaucratic complacency and recommends new leadership from outside the Secret Service, as well as a renewed focus on its protective mission over financial crime investigations. It warns that without substantial changes, similar threats to candidates could occur in the future. The review also proposes implementing enhanced security measures and coordination between federal and local law enforcement by March 2025. The panel's findings have led to widespread criticism of the Secret Service and resulted in the resignation of its director.