Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigns amid controversy over Trump shooting

US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle has tendered her resignation following the recent shooting incident involving former President Donald Trump. Sources cited by CNN confirm that Cheatle has stepped down from her position.

The resignation comes as ongoing investigations delve into the Secret Service’s handling of President Trump’s security, particularly in light of the incident that took place during a rally in Pennsylvania. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have called for Cheatle’s resignation, with some Republican lawmakers initiating impeachment proceedings against her. During her testimony before the House Oversight Committee, Cheatle faced criticism for evading several questions posed by the committee.

While acknowledging significant security flaws at the rally, Cheatle remained adamant about her suitability to lead the Secret Service. “I think I am the best person to lead the Secret Service at this time,” she stated during her testimony. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed his belief that Cheatle’s departure was long overdue, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding public trust in the agency.

“We have to rebuild the American people’s faith and trust in the Secret Service as an agency,” Johnson remarked.

Cheatle’s initial response to the shooting incident indicated that she had no intention of resigning. She was appointed by President Joe Biden in 2022 to head the Secret Service.

The shooter, identified by the FBI as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, attempted to assassinate Donald Trump during the campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The gunman fired shots from a rooftop, injuring Trump in the ear before being neutralized by the Secret Service.

Cheatle’s resignation marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the Secret Service’s role in ensuring the safety of high-profile individuals.

The agency now faces the task of rebuilding public confidence and addressing the security shortcomings highlighted by the recent incident.