Whistleblowers reveal shocking security lapses at Trump rally before assassination attempt, sparking multiple investigations.
At a Glance
- Multiple whistleblowers allege “loose” security at Trump’s July 13 rally
- Sen. Josh Hawley demands investigation into security failures
- Usual security measures, including detection canines, were not employed
- Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle faces calls to step down
- Multiple probes launched to examine security lapses
Whistleblowers Expose Alarming Security Gaps
In a startling turn of events, multiple whistleblowers have come forward with allegations of severe security failures at former President Donald Trump’s July 13 rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The revelations have prompted U.S. Senator Josh Hawley to demand a comprehensive investigation into the incident that led to an assassination attempt on the former president.
According to Sen. Hawley’s letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, the rally was considered a “loose” security event, with several critical safety measures absent. The whistleblowers reported that detection canines were not used as usual, individuals without proper clearance accessed backstage areas, and the security buffer around the podium was not properly policed.
Hawley Reveals New Whistleblower Allegations Exposing ‘Loose’ Security Ahead of Trump Assassination Attempthttps://t.co/OttVae5jBd
— Senator Hawley Press Office (@SenHawleyPress) July 19, 2024
Detailed Allegations Raise Serious Concerns
The whistleblowers’ accounts paint a disturbing picture of the event’s security arrangements. Sen. Hawley’s letter states, “Whistleblowers who have direct knowledge of the event have approached my office. According to the allegations, the July 13 rally was considered to be a ‘loose’ security event.”
“For example, detection canines were not used to monitor entry and detect threats in the usual manner. Individuals without proper designations were able to gain access to backstage areas. Department personnel did not appropriately police the security buffer around the podium and were also not stationed at regular intervals around the event’s security perimeter,” Senator Hawley continued.
These allegations have raised serious questions about the operational decisions and resource management within the presidential protection services. The shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, was able to get within 500 feet of Trump, climb a building, and get a line of sight to the former president before opening fire.
Multiple Investigations Launched
In response to these alarming revelations, several investigations have been initiated. President Biden has ordered an independent review of the rally’s security, with the FBI leading the investigation into the shooting. The Department of Homeland Security Office of the Inspector General is also investigating the Secret Service’s handling of the event’s security.
Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle is facing increasing pressure, with calls for her resignation mounting. She is scheduled to testify before the House Oversight and Accountability Committee to address the security failures. The Secret Service has already placed at least five members on administrative leave following the July 13 assassination attempt.
Calls for Accountability and Reform
As investigations continue, there are growing demands for accountability and reform within the Secret Service. Sen. Hawley has opened a whistleblower tip line in his office to protect the anonymity of those coming forward with information. The senator’s letter to Secretary Mayorkas includes specific questions about staffing, training, security protocols, and site survey procedures, requesting detailed information within seven days.
The incident has sparked a broader debate about the protection of former presidents and the need for heightened security measures. As the nation grapples with the implications of this near-tragedy, the focus remains on ensuring that such security lapses never occur again, regardless of the protectee’s political affiliation.
