In response to the recent assassination attempt on former President Trump, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) formed a bipartisan task force on Tuesday to conduct a comprehensive investigation.
Johnson and Jeffries stated, “The security lapses that allowed an assassination attempt on Donald Trump’s life are deeply troubling. In answer to bipartisan calls for clarity, we are establishing a House Task Force composed of seven Republicans and six Democrats to thoroughly probe this incident.
Task Force to Investigate Security Lapses Leading to Attack
This task force will have subpoena power and will act swiftly to uncover the facts, ensure accountability, and prevent future occurrences of such security failures.”
The task force will include 13 members, with six Democrats and seven Republicans, as outlined in the resolution to form it. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-Pa.), who was present at Trump’s rally during the attack, is the primary sponsor of the resolution.
House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) indicated to The Hill that the resolution is expected to be voted on Wednesday evening. It will be considered under suspension of the rules, which requires a two-thirds majority for approval.
Emmer anticipated strong support, noting that Johnson and Jeffries had coordinated on the details of the task force.
The task force’s mission is to evaluate the security failures that led to the attack, propose changes to relevant agencies, and recommend new legislation if necessary. Johnson had committed to forming this task force shortly after the shooting.
The attack at Trump’s rally in Butler, Pa., resulted in the former president being injured, one attendee dead, and two others severely hurt. The 20-year-old suspect in the shooting was shot and killed by authorities.
