According to Fox News, U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle remains firm in her position amid growing calls for her resignation from top lawmakers.
The calls for Cheatle’s resignation follow an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
On Wednesday, Cheatle’s office issued a statement affirming her intention to stay on as Director. This announcement comes as she faces increasing pressure from Washington lawmakers for her to step down.
Republican Senators Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee and John Barrasso of Wyoming have been particularly vocal, confronting Cheatle at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Blackburn expressed frustration over Cheatle's refusal to answer questions during the convention, deeming it an inappropriate venue for such discussions.
Blackburn also took to Twitter to voice her dissatisfaction, indicating that Cheatle had avoided questions on a previous conference call earlier that day. The Senator stressed that the American public deserves answers regarding the security breach that led to the attempt on Trump’s life.
In a statement, Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi emphasized the importance of maintaining operational continuity during critical incidents. He also highlighted Cheatle’s commitment to transparency and improving the agency through ongoing investigations and reviews.
The assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump occurred during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, last Saturday. Details of the incident have prompted significant concern among lawmakers and the public alike.
In response to the attack, Cheatle participated in a briefing with U.S. Senators, where she was pressed for details on the incident and the agency’s response. The briefing, however, did little to quell the growing calls for her resignation.
Sen. Blackburn’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among some lawmakers that more needs to be done to address the security lapse. “She can run but she can’t hide because the American people want to know how an assassination attempt was carried out on former President Donald Trump,” Blackburn stated.
Despite the intense scrutiny, Cheatle has made it clear she intends to remain in her position. The statement from her office reiterated her dedication to transparency and strengthening the Secret Service.
“Continuity of operations is paramount during a critical incident,” Guglielmi said. “Director Cheatle deeply respects members of Congress and is fiercely committed to transparency in leading the Secret Service through the internal investigation and strengthening the agency through lessons learned in these important internal and external reviews.”
The FBI’s investigation into Thomas Matthew Crooks, the alleged shooter, is ongoing. Details about Crooks and his motives are still emerging as the investigation progresses. Cheatle’s commitment to remaining in her role indicates a focus on stability within the Secret Service during this tumultuous time. The agency’s ability to adapt and learn from this incident will be critical in restoring public confidence.
In summary, Cheatle faces mounting pressure to step down amidst an investigation into an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. Lawmakers, particularly Senators Blackburn and Barrasso, have been vocal in their demand for accountability. The Secret Service has emphasized the importance of continuity and transparency as the investigation unfolds, with Cheatle remaining steadfast in her leadership role.
