Kimberly Cheatle is facing scrutiny over her handling of security at Trump’s Pennsylvania rally
Washington, D.C. – In a significant development, Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle has agreed to testify before the House Oversight and Accountability Committee regarding the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.
The committee, which is investigating the incident, had issued a subpoena to Cheatle after expressing concerns that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Secret Service had not adequately assured her attendance. The committee confirmed Cheatle’s agreement to comply with the subpoena on Wednesday evening.
“Americans demand and deserve answers from Director Cheatle about the attempted assassination of President Trump and the Secret Service’s egregious failures,” the GOP-led committee stated on X (formerly Twitter) following Cheatle’s confirmation to appear.
Committee Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) highlighted the lack of communication and updates from the Secret Service and DHS regarding the investigation. Comer expressed frustration over the agencies’ transparency issues in a letter accompanying the subpoena, questioning Cheatle’s leadership.
“The lack of transparency and failure to cooperate with the Committee on this pressing matter by both DHS and the Secret Service further calls into question your ability to lead the Secret Service and necessitates the attached subpoena compelling your appearance before the Oversight Committee,” the letter read.
Initially, the committee had requested Cheatle’s voluntary presence. However, an Oversight Committee spokesperson informed Fox News’ Chad Pergram that a subpoena was issued to prevent any potential backtracking by DHS regarding her appearance on Monday.
The urgency of the hearing comes after the assassination attempt on Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday. The attack resulted in the death of one rally attendee and injuries to several others. Following the incident, members of Congress swiftly called for a thorough investigation.
The full committee hearing is scheduled for Monday, July 22. Cheatle is expected to provide critical insights and address the committee’s concerns about the Secret Service’s handling of the situation and their protective measures for the former president.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.