House Panel Blames Secret Service for Security Failures

The U.S. House task force investigating the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump has pointed to significant failures by the Secret Service in their security planning and coordination with local law enforcement during a July 13 rally in Pennsylvania. Task force Chair Mike Kelly noted that the assailant, Thomas Matthew Crooks, was able to exploit vulnerabilities in the security measures, which included a lack of communication and decision-making by the Secret Service. The bipartisan panel, comprising both Republicans and Democrats, emphasized the need for improved security protocols and accountability, especially following a recent incident where another gunman was apprehended at Trump's golf course. They unanimously passed legislation mandating that the Secret Service apply the same security standards for major presidential candidates as they do for sitting presidents. The task force's findings highlight a series of breakdowns that contributed to both assassination attempts, raising concerns about the agency's operational effectiveness. Local law enforcement officials testified that they felt prepared to assist but were hindered by the Secret Service's inadequate planning.