WASHINGTON – An independent review panel investigating the attempted assassination of Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania rally has called for “fundamental reform” within the Secret Service, warning that without major changes, similar incidents are likely to occur again.
The 52-page report, released on Thursday, highlighted critical failures in communication and security protocols leading up to the incident. The Secret Service was criticized for inadequate protection measures and a lack of understanding regarding the unique risks associated with Trump’s security.
The panel’s recommendations include introducing new leadership from outside the agency and a renewed focus on the Secret Service’s protective mission. The report emphasized the urgency of change, asserting that “another incident can and will happen again” without significant reform.
The alarming incident at the rally resulted in one death and two injuries after Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire from a nearby rooftop. Despite being injured himself, Trump was swiftly evacuated by Secret Service agents. This attack, along with a separate incident during a golf event in Florida, has raised serious concerns about the agency’s efficacy and trustworthiness.
This review was conducted by a panel of four former law enforcement officials, following multiple investigations by congressional members and oversight bodies. In response, the Secret Service has stated it is already implementing changes to enhance operational readiness, communication, and protective measures for Trump and other individuals under its guard.
The report pointed to significant communication breakdowns during the rally, particularly a critical failure to secure a building that offered a direct line of sight to Trump. The panel criticized both the planning and the lack of coordination between the Secret Service and local law enforcement, stating that reliance on a vague understanding of local security was inadequate.
The review underscored that the agency has been operating under the assumption of needing to “do more with less.” It noted that the enhanced security measures implemented after the Butler shooting should have been standard practice beforehand. The panel indicated that there were no signs of intentional wrongdoing but highlighted an overreliance on generic personnel assignments rather than tailored risk assessments.
The findings also highlighted poor preparation and oversight among senior staff, with instances of inadequate communication management and a lack of situational awareness. Specific agents involved were identified as having limited experience, contributing to operational weaknesses during key events.
The panel’s recommendations include establishing a unified command post for large events, implementing aerial surveillance, enhancing security planning to address visibility issues, and bolstering training on emergency evacuation procedures.
Additionally, the report advocates for the Secret Service to prioritize its protective mission over its investigative duties, calling it “unacceptable” for the agency to divert focus from its core responsibilities when their current performance is below acceptable standards.
Previous independent reviews of the Secret Service have similarly identified areas for improvement, reiterating the need for ongoing scrutiny and reform to ensure the safety of those under its protection.
