Senate Democrat Criticizes Biden-Harris Admin for ‘Stonewalling’ on Trump Assassination Attempts
A top Senate Democrat, Sen. Richard Blumenthal from Connecticut, has criticized the Biden-Harris administration for what he perceives as “stonewalling” in response to requests for information regarding the assassination attempts on former President Trump and potential failures of the U.S. Secret Service. Blumenthal, who serves as chairman of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI) within the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC), expressed his frustration with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for resisting requests for crucial documents, evidence, and information necessary for investigation.
Blumenthal emphasized that the DHS has been “almost derelict in its duty” by withholding vital information from Congress. He voiced his disappointment and anger at the lack of cooperation from the department, stating that he has become increasingly frustrated with their lack of transparency. The Democrat hinted at the possibility of issuing subpoenas in the future to compel the DHS to provide the necessary information, emphasizing Congress’ power to do so through the compulsory process.
Sen. Ron Johnson, the ranking member of the PSI from Wisconsin, echoed Blumenthal’s sentiments, describing the DHS’s behavior as holding “all their cards close to the vest.” Johnson also raised concerns about the lack of transparency within the DHS, suggesting that their refusal to disclose information was fueling suspicion and conspiracy theories surrounding the assassination attempts on former President Trump.
Acting Director Ronald Rowe Jr. of the U.S. Secret Service, who addressed the media at a press conference on the assassination attempt of former President Trump in West Palm Beach, Florida, faced scrutiny from members of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Sen. Johnson questioned Rowe’s handling of the situation, expressing disappointment in the lack of cooperation from the Secret Service in providing necessary information for the investigation.
The Senate Democrats on the PSI and HSGAC, including Chairman Gary Peters from Michigan, have expressed their frustration with the DHS and the Secret Service’s reluctance to cooperate. Johnson highlighted a letter that was sent to the Secret Service and DHS, which received a disrespectful response within just four hours. This disrespectful response further fueled the frustration of the Senate Democrats, prompting them to consider more aggressive measures to compel the agencies to provide the required information.
The Secret Service recently opened fire at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, after spotting a suspect raising a weapon. The suspect, identified as 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh, had allegedly attempted to breach the security perimeter with an AK-47. Authorities were able to apprehend the suspect, who fled the scene in a black Nissan SUV, preventing a potential threat to former President Trump.
The HSGAC and PSI had been conducting an investigation into the first assassination attempt on former President Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13. The recent briefing from Acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe left members of the committee frustrated and disappointed by the uncovered failures in security protocols and response procedures.
In conclusion, the Senate Democrats, led by Sen. Blumenthal and Sen. Johnson, are demanding greater transparency and cooperation from the DHS and the Secret Service in the ongoing investigations into the assassination attempts on former President Trump. The lack of information provided by these agencies has raised concerns about the effectiveness of security measures and the potential risks to high-profile individuals. As the investigation continues, it remains imperative for the administration to prioritize accountability and transparency to ensure the safety and security of all individuals under their protection.