Republican slams Secret Service chief for failing to ‘quell' shooting conspiracy theories
Kansas Republican Rep. Jake LaTurner hammered U.S. Secret Service director Kimberly Cheatle during the House Oversight and Reform Committee hearing Monday on why she is not fighting conspiracy theories that have swirled after the assassination attempt on Donald Trump.
LaTurner demanded to know whether Cheatle stands by her statement that the protection Trump receives is adequate as a candidate for president and a former president. Cheatle said that she stands by her earlier statement that Trump is adequately protected.
The congressman continued, asking about all-time trust in the government being "low." He asked if "it was a problem," to which she responded, "I think it is unfortunate."
"I don't know why you're quibbling about whether it's a problem or not," he responded.
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"I think the American public deserves to have trust in their federal government," Cheatle replied.
"I don't know why you're being difficult," LaTurner chuckled. "Are you concerned about the increasing prevalence of conspiracy theories going on out there right now?"
She said she was, and LaTurner said he was as well.
He rattled off a number of questions that he said Cheatle had avoided answering on Monday. According to LaTurner's complaints was a refusal to engage in a questions about if the shooter had explosives, the placement of the Secret Service agents, and how many bullets were fired or shell casings were found.
At the start of the hearing, Committee Chair James Comer (R-TN) asked about the shooter using a drone. Cheatle said that she knew information regarding the question, but wouldn't reveal it.
"What we're wanting to know today and what would dispel some of the conspiracy theories out there, what would increase trust with the American people, is for you to let facts come out, for you to tell us what you know," the Kansas lawmaker said.
"I want to understand from you why is that a problem?" he continued. "What is it inconsistent with a quality investigation released to the American people today, at least information you know for sure? Because you certainly know for sure more information than you willing to give us today."
"I have released that there was a failure and that there are gaps that we need to make sure that they don't happen again," Cheatle resonded.
LaTurner interrupted to say that wasn't enough. "That doesn't quell any conspiracy theories out there."
See the debate below or at the link here.
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