Senate Report Slams Secret Service for ‘Preventable Failures’ in Trump Assassination Attempt

Committee Demands Harsher Discipline After Critical Findings Released

A scathing new Senate report has detailed a “cascade of preventable failures” by the Secret Service during the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, calling for more severe disciplinary action within the agency.

Security Lapses Detailed in 31-Page Report

The Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee’s findings, released Sunday, highlight significant mishandling of communications and a denial of extra security for Trump on the day of the attack. The report states a 20-year-old assailant evaded detection for nearly 45 minutes, with no one yet fired over the incident.

Rally Attack Anniversary Underscores Security Shortcomings

The report’s release coincides with the first anniversary of the July 13, 2024, incident where a bullet grazed Trump‘s ear. Tragically, one rally-goer, Corey Comperatore, was killed. The shooter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed by Secret Service agents after he fired from an elevated position with an AR015-style rifle.

Trump’s Resilience Became Political Symbol

The image of Trump raising his fist post-attack became a powerful political symbol, reportedly aiding Joe Biden‘s withdrawal from the presidential race and accelerating support for Trump‘s subsequent presidency.

Investigative Committee Reveals Agency Disarray

Chaired by Senator Rand Paul, the committee conducted 17 interviews and reviewed thousands of documents. While the shooter’s motives remain unclear, the investigation revealed disorganization within the Secret Service during the unfolding crisis. The committee noted that the agency “denied or left unfulfilled” multiple requests for additional staff and resources, and assigned an inexperienced operator to manage critical operations despite known venue vulnerabilities.

“What happened was inexcusable,” the committee stated, adding that “the consequences imposed for the failures so far do not reflect the severity of the situation.”

Currently, six Secret Service agents have been suspended without pay for their roles in the incident, with suspensions ranging from 10 to 42 days. The agency’s deputy director, Matt Quinn, has indicated a stance against widespread firings, stating the Secret Service would not “fire our way out of this” crisis.

Secret Service Faces Scrutiny Amid Ongoing Investigations

The findings come as the Secret Service continues to face intense scrutiny over its protective protocols. The U.S. Secret Service has a budget of over $3 billion for 2025, reflecting its expansive operational demands and the critical nature of its mission to protect national leaders.