A whistleblower has come forward with allegations that the Secret Service significantly reduced its threat assessment efforts prior to the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. This revelation was shared by Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) in a letter to Secret Service acting Director Ronald Rowe.

Hawley disclosed these accusations in a letter posted on X, stating, “Since your testimony before the Senate of July 30, new and disturbing information has come to light about Secret Service planning for the Butler, Pennsylvania Trump campaign event—and your own involvement.”

The whistleblower alleged that Rowe personally cut manpower to the Secret Service Counter Surveillance Division (CSD) by 20% and failed to disclose this reduction during his congressional testimony. According to the whistleblower, had the CSD been allowed to operate with its full capacity, the alleged shooter would have been apprehended long before posing a threat to Trump.

Additionally, the whistleblower claimed that some officers had warned about security lapses at events prior to the shooting. Instead of addressing these concerns, officials reportedly retaliated against the officers who raised them.

In his letter, Hawley requested that Rowe provide records of policy changes made during his tenure, particularly those affecting the CSD. He also asked for records related to officers currently under disciplinary action within the Secret Service.

These allegations add to a series of recent criticisms regarding the Secret Service’s handling of security for Trump. The scrutiny has already led to the resignation of the Secret Service director, amid growing public pressure.

Hawley’s letter highlights the severity of the situation, stating that the whistleblower’s claims suggest a significant breach in security protocols that could have prevented the assassination attempt. As investigations continue, these revelations may prompt further scrutiny of the Secret Service’s practices and leadership.