The House Task Force investigating the assassination attempts on President-elect Donald Trump released its final report Tuesday, highlighting critical security failures and leadership lapses. The 180-page report outlined vulnerabilities in Trump’s July campaign rally in Pennsylvania and noted a lack of cooperation regarding a second attempt in September at Trump’s Palm Beach golf course.
The report criticized the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Secret Service, FBI, and ATF for failing to provide requested documents related to the September 15 incident. The report states that, “The Task Force notes that as of the date of publication of this report, [the Department of Homeland Security], [U.S. Secret Service], FBI, and [Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives] have not produced any documents responsive to the Task Force’s requests regarding the preparation for, events of, and response to the second assassination attempt that occurred on September 15.”
Lawmakers found the golf course’s perimeter posed significant risks, with Secret Service agents identifying it as a potential sniper position. The report urged the Secret Service to revise security protocols for golf courses, given Trump’s frequent golfing and its implications for presidential safety.
The report when on to add that “The failure in [Butler, Pennsylvania] was far from the first significant USSS failure in recent history, and it is fair to question whether USSS should continue to be housed within DHS.” The report noted that housing the Secret Service within DHS potentially weakens its ability to secure resources and advocate for its priorities. Before 2003, the Secret Service operated under the Treasury Department.
The task force also recommended scaling back Secret Service protection to conserve resources, particularly during events like the United Nations General Assembly, which coincided with the September attack. The strain on resources during such events, the report noted, may hinder the agency’s primary duty to protect the president and key U.S. leaders.
The July 13 rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where a 20-year-old gunman fired at Trump, resulted in one death and injuries to Trump and two others. The report detailed security lapses that left attendees exposed to danger. In contrast, the Secret Service’s response to the September 15 golf course attack was praised for proper execution of protective measures.
Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi acknowledged the task force’s findings and stated that the agency is committed to improving its operations through new technologies, enhanced training, and stronger resource acquisition. The report’s conclusions signal a need for significant reforms to ensure the safety of future presidents and public officials.
