House Speaker Mike Johnson recently made comments regarding the Secret Service's role in protection, emphasizing that their primary duty is to ensure the safety of individuals under their care rather than focusing on diversity within their ranks. This statement follows criticism from some right-wing sources directed at female Secret Service agents after a recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.
Following the incident, certain media figures on the right raised concerns about the female agents present on stage with Trump, suggesting that they may not have been capable of adequately protecting someone of larger stature or that they did not exhibit professionalism in their actions.
Johnson emphasized the importance of having the most qualified officers regardless of gender, highlighting the need for competence and skill in carrying out their duties effectively.
Despite the criticism from some quarters, the Trump campaign has disavowed such sentiments. Top Trump adviser Chris LaCivita, who was present at Trump's rally in Grand Rapids, Michigan, praised the Secret Service agents for their swift and courageous response during the incident.
LaCivita commended the agents for their bravery, noting the quick and decisive actions taken to protect the former president. He specifically mentioned the actions of two female agents, describing their response as impressive and commendable.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and senior officials from the Department of Homeland Security issued a joint statement condemning the attacks on the Secret Service agents. They described the accusations as unfounded and disrespectful, emphasizing the agents' high level of training, skill, and dedication to their duty.
