SCOOP: Sen Ron Johnson readies subpoenas for FBI, DOJ in Butler shooting probe
Context:
Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin is preparing to issue subpoenas to the FBI and DOJ in his investigation into a shooting incident at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The shooting, which occurred nearly a year ago, involved an assassination attempt on Donald Trump, resulting in the death of a firefighter named Corey Comperatore and injuries to others. Johnson, chair of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, has faced significant hurdles and a lack of cooperation from federal agencies, prompting his decision to move forward with unilateral subpoena power. Despite the completion of a preliminary bipartisan report, Johnson is determined to continue the probe, citing a need for accountability and more comprehensive findings. He expresses frustration at the stonewalling by the FBI and DOJ, aiming for a final report that highlights the Secret Service's failures in managing security and resources during the rally.
Dive Deeper:
Senator Ron Johnson is taking significant steps by preparing subpoenas for the FBI and DOJ to acquire more information regarding the shooting incident at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, which involved an assassination attempt on Donald Trump.
The shooting, which occurred in July 2024, involved gunman Thomas Crooks firing eight rounds from a rooftop, injuring Trump and killing firefighter Corey Comperatore, with others wounded before Crooks was killed.
Johnson, who co-authored a Senate Homeland Security Committee report on the incident, has encountered obstacles and a lack of cooperation from federal agencies, prompting his move to issue subpoenas.
The preliminary report criticized the Secret Service for inadequate planning, communication, security, and resource allocation, deeming these failures as preventable factors contributing to the assassination attempt.
Despite the challenges, Johnson is resolute in continuing the investigation, emphasizing the need for accountability and a comprehensive final report that addresses the security lapses at the rally.
Johnson is hopeful that his efforts will result in a bipartisan final report, but he remains prepared to proceed with his unilateral subpoena power if necessary to gather the required information.
The investigation underscores ongoing tensions and challenges within federal agencies in sharing information and addressing security failures, highlighting the importance of accountability and transparency in governmental operations.