Former President Trump recently came to the defense of a female Secret Service agent who shielded him during an assassination attempt, following online criticism she faced. Trump praised the agent's bravery and recounted the harrowing incident at a rally in St. Cloud, Minnesota.
During the rally, Trump expressed his admiration for the Secret Service agents who protected him, highlighting the courage of the female agent who shielded him despite being criticized for not being tall enough. He emphasized her bravery and willingness to take a bullet for him during the chaotic situation.
However, the female agent faced backlash from online commentators and Trump donors, with some questioning the presence of women in the Secret Service. Conservative figures like Dinesh D'Souza and Matt Walsh criticized the female agent's actions and argued against having women in such roles.
Even Tesla CEO Elon Musk weighed in, suggesting that Secret Service agents should be large enough to effectively cover and protect their subjects. The incident has sparked a debate about gender and physical requirements within the Secret Service.
Following the assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned amid bipartisan pressure. The security lapse that allowed the assailant to get dangerously close to the former president prompted calls for accountability within the agency.
In response to the incident, the House Homeland Security Committee launched a full investigation and issued subpoenas to delve into the security failures that occurred during the Trump rally. The aftermath of the attempted assassination has raised concerns about the effectiveness and preparedness of the Secret Service in protecting high-profile individuals.
