Secret Service Faces Pressure After Trump Threats

The U.S. Secret Service is facing significant scrutiny and pressure to reform after two assassination attempts on President-elect Donald Trump, with Acting Director Ronald Rowe acknowledging the agency's 'abject failure' to protect him during a July rally in Pennsylvania. Rowe testified before a bipartisan House task force, detailing new security measures and the need for a cultural overhaul within the agency to empower agents to report concerns. The July incident left Trump injured and resulted in the death of a rally attendee, while a subsequent attempt in Florida was thwarted by vigilant Secret Service agents. Investigations have highlighted communication lapses and poor planning as key factors in the security breakdowns, prompting Congress to provide additional funding for the agency's reform efforts. Rowe has outlined changes including enhanced training, increased staffing, and improved coordination with local law enforcement. The agency's response to these threats will be crucial in restoring public confidence in its capabilities.