Western Reader
Former President Donald Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13, 2024, resulting in one fatality and several injuries. The Senate Judiciary Committee conducted hearings to investigate the incident, exposing errors made by local law enforcement and federal agencies.
FBI Director Christopher Wray initially questioned whether Trump was hit by a bullet or shrapnel, causing confusion. This was later clarified, confirming that Trump was indeed struck by a bullet, leading to further frustration and skepticism among lawmakers and the public.
“Then why did your agency *DELETE* the email??”
BREAKING: Senator @MarshaBlackburn confronts Acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe about a *DELETED* Counter-Sniper’s email calling out the agency’s lack of accountability over the Trump assassination attempt.
“This agency… pic.twitter.com/n1uLvJq4da
— Kyle Becker (@kylenabecker) July 30, 2024
Acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe Jr. primarily criticized local law enforcement for failing to communicate effectively and respond promptly to the threat posed by the would-be assassin, Thomas Crook. Evidence presented during the hearing indicated that authorities had identified Crook as a suspicious individual nearly 100 minutes before the shooting.
However, crucial warnings about Crook were not relayed efficiently to the Secret Service, allowing Crook to get dangerously close to the stage.
🚨 NEW TRUMP ASSASSINATION VIDEO DESTROYS SECRET SERVICE NARRATIVE:
Shooter Thomas Crooks can be seen CLEARLY lurking on the rooftop minutes before the shooting
The Secret Service has held that snipers could NOT see him over roofline.
This is proven FALSE!pic.twitter.com/DzWzdIvHmb
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) July 31, 2024
Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) raised concerns about the response timeline, revealing that local officers had identified and photographed Crook but failed to promptly alert the Secret Service, sharing these details in group messages instead.
Despite early identification, Crook was allowed to remain near the venue, eventually opening fire during Trump’s speech, causing panic and casualties.
The incident has sparked calls for reforms within both local and federal law enforcement agencies. Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) criticized the perceived lack of transparency and accountability by the FBI, highlighting a need for honesty in federal agencies. Marshall’s remarks reflect a growing sentiment among conservative lawmakers who believe that political biases within federal agencies have compromised their credibility.
As investigations continue, there is a growing demand for clearer protocols and better communication between agencies. This incident underscores the importance of a coordinated approach to handling security threats, especially at significant political events. With the 2024 election on the horizon, ensuring the safety of candidates and the public remains a top priority for lawmakers and law enforcement.
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