US Secret Service Director Resigns After Security Failure in 'Shooting of Trump' Incident

Resigns One Day After Refusing to Step Down

Kimberly Cheatle, Director of the United States Secret Service (SS), resigned on the 23rd (local time) taking responsibility for the failure to protect former President Donald Trump, who was injured by a gunshot during an outdoor campaign rally.

In an email sent to staff on the same day, Director Cheatle stated regarding the shooting incident involving former President Trump, "As the director, I take full responsibility for the security failure," and added, "With a heavy heart over the recent incident, I have made the difficult decision to step down from my position as director."

President Joe Biden issued a statement announcing that he will appoint a new Secret Service director.

Regarding Director Cheatle, President Biden said, "During her service in the Secret Service, she selflessly dedicated herself to protecting the United States and risked her life," expressing his appreciation for her service. He continued, "An independent investigation into the events of the 13th is ongoing, and I look forward to its conclusions," adding, "We all understand that what happened that day must never happen again."

Earlier, former President Trump was injured on the 13th in Butler, Pennsylvania, when a bullet fired by a gunman grazed his right ear during an outdoor campaign rally. The incident resulted in the death of one audience member and injuries to three others, including former President Trump, sparking controversy over the security failure. The Secret Service, responsible for protecting former President Trump, had confirmed that the gunman was on the roof of a building near the rally site but failed to block him, drawing strong criticism. The Republican Party demanded Director Cheatle’s resignation due to the serious security failure, and some Democratic lawmakers also joined in.

Director Cheatle refused to resign voluntarily during a hearing held in the House of Representatives the previous day, stating, "I am the best person to lead the Secret Service." However, she ultimately took responsibility for the security failure and stepped down after just one day.