Staff Reports
The recent appearance of Acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe before House lawmakers might have resembled a scene from a political thriller, but sadly, this isn’t Hollywood. During a House hearing aimed at investigating two assassination attempts on President-elect Donald Trump this year, Rowe faced tough inquiries about the agency’s security lapses. It appears that accountability in Washington doesn’t come easily, but good luck to Rowe—he’s going to need it.
During his testimony, Rowe acknowledged that there were indeed “multiple employees” deserving of disciplinary action for their roles in the July 13 shooting at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Though he promised “accountability,” Rowe made it clear that due process is no express train; it’s more like a leisurely stroll through the bureaucratic park. Perhaps taking a stroll isn’t the best idea when one’s job is to protect the leader of the free world.
What’s reassuring—if one is willing to be charitable—is that Rowe claimed significant changes are underway at the Secret Service. These enhancements supposedly include a paradigm shift in protective measures, the increased use of drones, and a commitment to more comprehensive training for agents. So while the agency fumbled spectacularly during the initial attack, it’s — fingers crossed — gaining some necessary improvements now, albeit a bit late to the game.
Rowe confessed to the agency’s failures during the Butler rally, where a sniper shot at Trump while he was addressing his supporters. Despite neither of the attempts on Trump’s life being particularly flattering for the Secret Service, it appears Rep. Mike Kelly is in a generous mood, praising Rowe for visible improvements. Apparently, “not flawless” is music to the ears of those who are getting shot at—good to know that “getting the job done” is more about the effort rather than outcomes.
Secret Service director grilled on reforms after Trump assassination attempts https://t.co/3dUiCFJIPS
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) December 6, 2024
In an unexpected showdown during the hearing, Rep. Pat Fallon escalated tensions by confronting Rowe about his attendance at a 9/11 memorial, alleging that Rowe positioned himself too close to Trump—thus undermining the security detail. Fallon’s assertion that Rowe was pandering for his job by soaking up proximity to Trump while under scrutiny raised eyebrows. Whispers in the room hinted that Rowe might be on his way out as Trump weighs his options for a new Secret Service chief.
As the drama unfolded, attention turned toward the task force’s upcoming report, which is expected to mirror earlier investigations focusing on the Secret Service’s blunders. While the House investigation may be bipartisan, one wonders whether such a unified approach will lead to real accountability. With the chaos and criticism swirling around Rowe’s leadership, it’s clear—protecting a president-elect shouldn’t be left to chance.
