The salary of the Director of the United States Secret Service has become a focal point in the aftermath of the shooting incident at a rally for former President Donald Trump. Representative Lauren Boebert from Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District has introduced the “Secret Service Accountability Act,” a controversial bill aimed at holding Director Kimberly Cheatle “accountable” by effectively cutting off federal funds for her salary. This move comes in direct response to what Boebert perceives as a critical failure by the Secret Service to protect Trump during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on July 13th.
Boebert’s proposed legislation directly targets the Secret Service Director Salary, stating that no federal funds should be “obliged or expended” for Cheatle’s compensation. In an interview with the Chieftain, Boebert articulated her stance, suggesting the bill is a strong push for Cheatle’s resignation. She argued that the events of July 13th demonstrated Cheatle’s lack of qualification to lead the Secret Service, emphasizing the need for a more competent individual in the role.
Kimberly Cheatle assumed the position of Secret Service Director on September 17, 2022. Her official profile on secretservice.gov highlights a distinguished 27-year career within the agency, culminating in her appointment to the director’s role after a period as Senior Director in Global Security for PepsiCo. Her extensive experience in the Secret Service is now being weighed against the security breach that occurred at the Trump rally.
During the Pennsylvania rally, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks discharged multiple rounds from a location approximately 150 yards from former President Trump. Reports from USA Today detail the incident, indicating that Crooks’ gunfire resulted in injuries to Trump’s ear, the death of 50-year-old spectator Corey Comperatore, and injuries to two other individuals before Secret Service agents neutralized him.
In an interview with ABC News, Director Cheatle described the shooting as “unacceptable” and vowed to prevent similar incidents in the future. She acknowledged ultimate responsibility, stating, “the buck stops” with her, and committed to ensuring enhanced security measures are implemented. However, these assurances have not quelled the concerns of Rep. Boebert and other critics.
Boebert’s Rationale for Targeting Secret Service Director’s Compensation
Boebert has publicly criticized Director Cheatle’s responses following the shooting, particularly regarding the security arrangements at the rally. Speaking to the Chieftain on July 16th, Boebert dismissed Cheatle’s explanations about the absence of snipers on the structure from which Crooks fired, citing the sloped roof and the delegation of responsibility to local law enforcement as “poor excuses.” Boebert also raised concerns about reports indicating law enforcement’s prior contact with Crooks and warnings from rally attendees about Crooks being armed, suggesting potential lapses in communication and threat assessment.
Furthermore, Boebert’s criticism extends beyond the immediate security failure. She has alleged that “woke (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) policies” within the Secret Service are prioritized over the fundamental protection of national leaders, according to a press release from her office on July 15th. The Secret Service has refuted claims of blaming local law enforcement in their own statement released on July 15th, emphasizing their commitment to thorough review and accountability.
“Accountability Act” Gains Traction Among House Republicans
Rep. Boebert has indicated that she would withdraw the Secret Service Accountability Act if Director Cheatle were to resign. However, she maintains that systemic accountability within the Secret Service is crucial regardless of the directorship. Boebert has called for more extensive investigation, suggesting a special select committee to probe the events of July 13th, emphasizing that the near-assassination of a former president demands comprehensive answers and accountability.
Boebert is a member of the U.S. House Oversight and Accountability Committee, which is scheduled to question Director Cheatle on July 22nd regarding “security lapses.” Cheatle has stated the Secret Service’s intention to fully cooperate with both the independent review announced by President Biden and any Congressional oversight actions.
The Secret Service Accountability Act has garnered co-sponsorship from eight other House Republicans, signaling growing support for Boebert’s stance. As Congress remains out of session, Boebert aims to engage in further discussions with her colleagues to build broader support for the bill, emphasizing the collective focus on obtaining answers and ensuring accountability for the security breach. The debate surrounding the Secret Service Director salary is therefore not just about compensation, but a symbolic representation of the demand for accountability and enhanced security protocols within one of the nation’s most critical protection agencies.
