US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle RESIGNS after Trump shooting

Embattled Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle dramatically announced Tuesday her resignation in the wake of the colossal security failures that led to Donald Trump being shot. 

Cheatle took responsibility for the catastrophic lapses after she was lambasted by Republicans and Democrats alike when she appeared before Congress on Monday.

The security chief had faced mounting questions over why an agent was not stationed on the roof from where gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire on the former president, and why Trump was allowed to take the stage even when a threat was detected.

She had also been ridiculed for suggesting her agency did not have a presence on the roof because it was ‘sloped’.

Trump, 78, told her the bizarre excuse was ‘crazy’ when they met for the first time after he was struck in the ear by a bullet at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13.

In a statement on Tuesday, Trump said: ‘The Biden/Harris Administration did not properly protect me, and I was forced to take a bullet for Democracy. IT WAS MY GREAT HONOR TO DO SO!’

Cheatle refused to step down from her post for nine days after the assassination attempt. 

In a resignation letter to colleague, Cheatle wrote: ‘The Secret Service’s solemn mission is to protect our nation’s leaders and financial infrastructure. On July 13th, we fell short on that mission.’

‘The scrutiny over the last week has been intense and will continue to remain as our operational tempo increases. As your Director, I take full responsibility for the security lapse,’ she continued. 

‘However, this incident does not define us. We remain an organization based on integrity and staffed by individuals of exceptional dedication and talent.’

She went on:  ‘As I’ve stated, the Secret Service will move forward with our investigatory and protective mission in a steadfast manner. 

‘We do not retreat from challenge. However, I do not want my calls for resignation to be a distraction from the great work each and every one of you do towards our vital mission.’

Cheatle continued: ‘In light of recent events, it is with a heavy heart that, I have made the difficult decision to step down as your Director. When I assumed the role as your Director, I pledged to do so with honor and integrity.’