Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., says Americans will be "shocked" and "appalled" by the upcoming report on the assassination attempt on former President Trump. He pointed to serious security failures from those tasked with protecting the GOP presidential nominee.
Acting U.S. Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe briefed senators in a closed-door meeting. The investigation into the failed attempt is ongoing.
Blumenthal shared his thoughts after the meeting. "The American people are going to be shocked, astonished, and appalled," he told Fox News. He added that the Department of Homeland Security should have been more forthcoming in sharing information.
Blumenthal didn't offer many details on what was discussed during the briefing. However, other lawmakers were more reserved in their comments.
Sen. Gary Peters, D-Mich., said the report would come out soon but would be an interim version. "We still have more information to gather," Peters explained, hoping for a full report to follow.
Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., emphasized that the report would be bipartisan. He noted there was some frustration with Rowe during the briefing, but progress was being made.
The Secret Service has faced growing criticism over the security lapses ahead of the July 13 shooting during Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Assistant Director Michael Plati, in charge of protection planning for top officials, is stepping down this Friday. Despite rumors, the Secret Service insists he wasn't forced to retire early. However, sources suggest otherwise.