An independent review into the July assassination attempt on presidential candidate Donald Trump has concluded that the United States Secret Service has not adequately adapted to increasing security threats and requires significant reform. The report, released Thursday by the Independent Review Panel and authored by four former law enforcement officials, warns that without these reforms, future attacks are likely.
These findings come three months after Trump narrowly avoided a fatal shooting at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where a bullet grazed his ear. This incident revealed critical security vulnerabilities and prompted heightened protective measures for Trump’s outdoor events.
The Secret Service, responsible for safeguarding top political figures and their families, faced widespread criticism in the aftermath of the Butler incident, leading to the resignation of Director Kimberly Cheatle, who cited failures in the agency’s response.
Additionally, just two months later, on September 15, the Secret Service prevented another potential attack on Trump. Agents arrested a gunman found hiding in the bushes at Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach, Florida, who allegedly intended to kill him, according to prosecutors.
