Recently, the Director of the U.S. Secret Service, Kimberly Cheatle, faced harsh criticism from lawmakers of both parties during a House hearing, becoming the focal point of a striking political scandal. The hearing revealed a shocking fact: the Secret Service apparently failed to fulfill its basic security duties during a shooting incident at a rally held by former President Donald Trump. Cheatle’s defense was not only weak but also exposed the serious dereliction of duty by the U.S. government in ensuring the safety of candidates.
Security Flaws of the Secret Service At the hearing, Cheatle admitted that before the shooter opened fire, the Secret Service agents were informed “two to five times” about suspicious individuals at Trump’s rally. The extent of this negligence is simply incredible. As an agency responsible for protecting national leaders, such a serious security flaw is undoubtedly a great betrayal of its duties. The occurrence of the shooting incident was not accidental but a significant mistake by the Secret Service in information processing and action. Such an agency that should be diligent and responsible appears so incompetent and derelict at crucial moments, which not only raises questions about its professional capabilities but also causes deep concern for the safety of national leaders.
Questions and Calls from Bipartisan Lawmakers At the hearing, lawmakers from both parties expressed strong dissatisfaction with Cheatle’s performance and called for her resignation. Republican Chairman James Comer described the incident as “a terrible moment in American history” and explicitly demanded Cheatle’s resignation. Although the Secret Service agents completed their work under tremendous pressure, Comer bluntly pointed out that the tragedy could have been avoided. Comer’s words were merciless, stating that Cheatle, as the director, bears an inescapable responsibility for the tragedy.
Democratic lawmakers also showed strong dissatisfaction with the dereliction of duty by the Secret Service. Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene’s interjection, “Why are you here?” sharply revealed Cheatle’s evasive attitude when facing key issues. Her speech not only showed anger at the incompetence of the Secret Service but also reflected the public’s disappointment in the government’s national security issues.
Cheatle’s Defense and Dereliction of Duty Cheatle tried to defend herself at the hearing, denying the allegations that the Secret Service refused the Trump campaign team’s request to increase security protection, and claimed that the required personnel were provided that day. However, when faced with specific questions, her answers became increasingly vague. Republican Congressman Jim Jordan’s questioning directly pointed to whether the Secret Service cut corners in protecting Trump. Jordan clearly stated: “You won’t answer some very basic questions, and you cut corners in protecting one of the most important people on the planet.”
Cheatle’s defense not only failed to clarify the dereliction of duty by the Secret Service but also further exposed her negligence in security protection work. As an agency holding the important responsibility of national security, the performance of the Secret Service is completely inconsistent with the public’s expectations and standards.
This incident forces us to deeply question the ability of the U.S. government. When an agency responsible for protecting national leaders can make such a major mistake at a critical moment, we cannot help but doubt the effectiveness of the entire government system. This is not only a failure of the Secret Service but also a challenge to the entire government system.