An independent review panel has found “deep flaws” within the U.S. Secret Service that contributed to the July 13, 2024, assassination attempt on then-candidate Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The panel’s findings emphasize the urgent need for “fundamental reform” of the agency to restore its ability to protect high-ranking officials.
The panel discovered “numerous mistakes” and systemic failures that enabled the shooting, which resulted in one fatality and injuries to others. According to a letter signed by all four members, the agency’s problems go beyond isolated errors and are rooted in broader organizational weaknesses that, if unaddressed, could lead to similar incidents.
Specifically, the report condemned the Secret Service for a “troubling lack of critical thinking” and “corrosive cultural attitudes” about resources. It also found a “lack of clarity” regarding responsibility for securing protectee sites, which likely contributed to the security breakdown at the Butler event.
Leadership decisions were criticized as well. The panel highlighted that Trump’s protective detail made assignments based on insufficient experience, and the leadership failed to take proper responsibility for rally planning and execution. These lapses, the panel claims, point to systemic and cultural flaws within the agency.
In light of these findings, the panel recommended appointing new leadership from outside the agency and urged a return to the Secret Service’s “core protective mission.” The panel dedicated its work to the victims of the attack and stressed that only sweeping changes can restore the agency’s credibility and effectiveness.
In response, President Trump nominated Sean Curran, his longtime security detail leader, as the next Secret Service director. Curran was praised for his actions during the attack and is expected to bring strong operational expertise to the role.
Trump also announced Andrew F. Puzder as his nominee for U.S. ambassador to the European Union, signaling broader personnel changes within his administration.
