Secret Service at Trump rally

During a recent press conference, Acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe revealed that the July 13 rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, marked the first time the agency deployed its own counter-snipers to protect former President Trump. This decision came after a shooting incident where a gunman, Thomas Crooks, fired at Trump, grazing his ear, and resulted in one fatality and two injuries. Rowe acknowledged communication failures and took responsibility for lapses that nearly led to Trump's assassination, as local law enforcement had raised concerns about Crooks' suspicious behavior shortly before the attack. Following the incident, the House of Representatives initiated a bipartisan task force to investigate the security breakdown, leading to the resignation of Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle. Moving forward, the Secret Service will provide counter-sniper coverage not only for Trump but also for President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance at outdoor events. Rowe emphasized the need for improved communication and coordination to ensure the safety of all individuals under their protection.