Staff Reports
The resignation of former Secret Service head Kimberly Cheatle has ignited a political frenzy, causing both Republicans and Democrats to unite under the banner of “Let’s Not Let This Happen Again.” Senators Chuck Grassley and Catherine Cortez Masto have wheeled out a new piece of legislation that would give Congress the ability to flex its oversight muscles over future Secret Service directors. Apparently, having a federally funded security service operate with a laissez-faire approach just isn’t cutting it anymore, especially after near-misses involving a certain former president.
According to Grassley and Cortez Masto, their bill aims to require that any president-appointed Secret Service director receives a thumbs-up from the Senate and operates with the knowledge that they’re on a ten-year clock. When it comes to security, one could argue this is a nice change of pace from the chaotic free-for-all many Americans have come to associate with federal agencies. Who wouldn’t want a little more oversight when it comes to keeping potentially dangerous characters at bay?
The senators outline a three-part plan for their crusade toward transparency and accountability, clearly looking to salvage their reputations amid the uproar over Cheatle’s tenure. The emphasis is on serious vetting, a gig that they state would help illuminate the qualifications of nominees seeking this powerful position. It’s almost as if they’re suggesting that, for a job tasked with protecting the highest levels of government from harm, candidates should actually have relevant experience and expertise. Revolutionary thinking right there.
Senators from both parties are demanding more control over future Secret Service directors following the resignation of former agency head Kimberly Cheatle. https://t.co/9539VJ9F1i
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) July 23, 2024
Cortez Masto made it clear that this proposal aims to put the Secret Service on par with other fine institutions like the FBI, the ATF, and the DEA. Picture this: a Secret Service director standing before the Senate, sweat trickling down their brow as lawmakers interrogate them about agency policy and how they plan to keep the president safe from the myriad threats lurking out there. It’s a riveting image, but perhaps not as exciting as it sounds—certainly a far cry from a thrilling movie plot involving secret agents and high-stakes espionage.
Despite the bipartisan effort, pushing this legislation through is likely to hit some bumps. The plan aims for speed in a Democrat-led Senate—stirring the pot without the tedious roll call vote. They seem eager to bypass the usual formalities. But take heart, because the GOP-controlled House will get a say in this matter too, so there’s a strong chance every stage of this process will end up resembling a classic political tug-of-war. Cheatle’s resignation may have spurred action, but if this isn’t the last the country hears about Secret Service oversight, it’s likely there will be a few more comedic plot twists yet to come.
