Charleston Reporter

Washington, D.C., July 22, 2024 – Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) addressed the U.S. Secret Service's failures during a House Oversight and Accountability Committee hearing today. The focus was on the agency's handling of an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

Director Cheatle faced sharp questioning from Congresswoman Mace, who criticized his evasive responses and lack of transparency.

Congresswoman Mace began by questioning Director Cheatle about his willingness to resign. "Both sides of the aisle today have asked for your resignation. Would you like to use my 5 minutes to draft your resignation letter, yes or no?" she asked. Director Cheatle responded, "No thank you."

The exchange continued with Congresswoman Mace asking if the incident was a "colossal failure" and whether it was preventable. Director Cheatle answered affirmatively to both questions.

Mace then addressed the issue of transparency: "You didn't want to answer the question. We had to issue a subpoena to get you to show up today." She also questioned the political nature of leaking Cheatle's opening statement to various news outlets before it was sent to the committee.

"Would you say leaking your opening statement to Punch Bowl News, Politico's playbook, and Washington Post several hours before you sent it to this committee as being political, yes or no?" asked Mace. Director Cheatle responded, "I have no idea how my statement got out."

Congresswoman Mace sought unanimous consent to enter articles from Punch Bowl News, Politico Playbook, and Washington Post into the record.

Further questioning revealed gaps in cooperation between the Secret Service and the committee. When asked if the agency had provided a complete list of law enforcement personnel present on the day in question and all requested audio and video recordings, Director Cheatle indicated he would need more time.

Mace concluded her line of questioning with pointed remarks: "You're full of shit today. You're just being completely dishonest…"

For media inquiries, please contact SC01press@mail.house.gov.

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