Republican Tennessee Sen. Marsha Blackburn raised concerns during a Senate hearing regarding the Secret Service's ability to fulfill its mission of protecting public figures, following an assassination attempt against former President Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13.
Blackburn highlighted an email reportedly sent by a Secret Service counter sniper, questioning the agency's trustworthiness and commitment to protection. The email suggested a need for change within the agency to prevent future security breaches, such as another potential assassination attempt.
Quoting from the email, Blackburn emphasized the sentiment that the Secret Service's motto seemed to be 'CYA,' indicating a focus on self-preservation rather than prioritizing the safety of those under their protection.
Expressing her dismay, Blackburn pointed out that the public's confidence in the Secret Service's ability to carry out its protective duties had been eroded. She questioned the priorities of agency employees, emphasizing the importance of focusing on safeguarding individuals like former presidents rather than self-preservation.
The email in question was reportedly circulated within the Secret Service's Uniform Division as details of the assassination attempt emerged, indicating internal concerns about the agency's operational effectiveness and commitment to its core mission.
