During a joint Senate hearing, acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe Jr. expressed shame over security lapses that allowed an assassination attempt on former President Trump. He vowed to investigate any employees who violated rules and discipline them accordingly. Rowe admitted failure in securing the roof from where the shooter attacked. He defended against immediate terminations, opting for a thorough investigation first before taking action. The lack of communication between agencies hindered the situation, as local officers did not relay crucial information regarding the armed shooter to the Secret Service. Only after gunshots were heard did the Secret Service countersniper realize the threat. There were delays in reporting and a lack of direct communication channels between agencies, a flaw that would require extensive planning to address. Rowe was appointed acting director after the resignation of Kimberly Cheatle, who faced criticism over her handling of the incident. FBI deputy director Paul Abbate mentioned a social media account potentially belonging to the shooter with concerning posts, but the motive remains unknown. The investigation is ongoing, with updates to follow.
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Secret Service director expresses shame for security lapse in Trump assassination attempt, promises accountability
