Biden Acknowledges Cheatle's Service Amid Secret Service Controversy

President Joe Biden expressed gratitude to former Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle for her nearly 30 years of service, highlighting her dedication to protecting the nation. This acknowledgment comes in the wake of an independent review launched to investigate the assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13. Biden emphasized the importance of the review, stating, "I look forward to assessing its conclusions," while also noting Cheatle's respect within the agency and the Department of Homeland Security. The House Oversight Committee has voiced significant frustration over Cheatle's testimony regarding the security failures that allowed the shooter to access a nearby roof with a clear line of sight to Trump. Committee Chairman James Comer criticized Cheatle for not providing satisfactory answers, stating, "Congress deserves answers." Following the hearing, both Comer and Rep. Jamie Raskin called for Cheatle's resignation, citing her failure to address critical questions about the operational lapses that led to the incident. Cheatle ultimately resigned a day after the hearing, taking full responsibility for the security breach. In her resignation statement, she acknowledged the agency's shortcomings, saying, "On July 13th, we fell short on that mission." Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas appointed Deputy Director Ronald Rowe as acting director until a permanent replacement is named. The House committee plans to establish a task force with subpoena authority to ensure accountability and prevent future security failures, as the Secret Service faces ongoing scrutiny for its handling of the incident and previous scandals.