A Senior National Security Analyst has called for US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to be put on leave following intense scrutiny over the agency's handling of the recent assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump. The Analyst stated that the Secret Service failed in their duty to protect the former President and that accountability is necessary for the agency to move forward.
The Analyst, who previously served in the Obama administration, raised several questions about the Secret Service's preparation and response to the incident, including the security of the rooftop where the gunman was positioned and the speed of the agents' response in removing Trump from the scene.
Footage from the aftermath of the shooting showed a bloodied Trump urging agents to wait for him to put his shoes back on before displaying a defiant gesture to the crowd. The Analyst emphasized the importance of agents prioritizing the protection of the constitutional position over the protectee's wishes.
In response to the criticism, Cheatle defended the Secret Service's actions in a memo, expressing pride in the team's efforts. She urged the agency not to be swayed by external judgment and to focus on their mission in the face of both praise and criticism.
The news agency has reached out to the Secret Service for further comment on the reported memo and the ongoing investigation into the assassination attempt.
