Secret Service director steps down

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – The head of the U.S. Secret Service is now out of a job. The director announced her resignation Tuesday.

Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle has stepped down.

She came under intense scrutiny for the agency’s failure to prevent the assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump.

“I’m glad she did the right thing,” said House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.).

Cheatle faced calls to resign since the shooting at a rally for former president Donald Trump on July 13.

One person died and two others are still in serious condition.

House Speaker Mike Johnson calls the resignation overdue.

“It’s a very dangerous time we need the Secret Service to be performing at the top of their game,” said Johnson.

Cheatle’s departure comes a day after she faced bipartisan anger on Capitol Hill over the Secret Service’s failure to protect Trump.

California Democratic Congressman Pete Aguilar was one of them.

“It’s important the Secret Service accept responsibility,” said Aguilar.

Ronald Rowe, Jr. Is now acting Secret Service director.

Monday, a group of lawmakers visited Butler, Pennsylvania to get a first-hand look at the crime scene.

Tuesday, in a House hearing to examine the assassination attempt, the Pennsylvania State Police explained their role.

“Prior to the shooting, our role was to support the Secret Service with personnel and assets that they requested,” said Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris.

In a statement, President Joe Biden said he looks forward to naming a new permanent Secret Service director soon.

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