During a congressional hearing, heated exchanges erupted between Rep. Pat Fallon (R-TX) and Acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe over security protocols during a 9/11 memorial.

In the contentious proceeding exploring Secret Service failures surrounding attempts on Donald Trump's life, a dispute erupted regarding security decisions made during a 9/11 ceremony, as the Washington Examiner reports.

The confrontation centered around Rowe's decision to stand behind Donald Trump during the aforementioned memorial, which Fallon criticized as a lapse in protocol. Fallon argued that this positioning compromised the security arrangement designed to protect Trump.

Fallon presented a photograph showing Rowe behind Trump during the ceremony, suggesting that Rowe's proper place was beside Trump, not behind him. This, he claimed, put the Secret Service detail at risk by prioritizing visibility over security.

Rowe, defending his actions, highlighted his past as a responder at ground zero following the 9/11 attacks. He argued that his presence at the memorial was intended to honor the victims and represent the Secret Service respectfully.

Disagreement Escalates into Shouting Match

The dialogue between Fallon and Rowe escalated, with both parties raising their voices. Fallon accused Rowe of playing politics with a serious security issue, while Rowe insisted on the appropriateness of his actions.

“I actually responded to ground zero. I was there going through the ashes of the World Trade Center,” Rowe passionately recounted, to which Fallon responded dismissively, demanding answers rather than justifications.

“I’m not asking you,” Fallon interrupted as Rowe tried to explain his actions, reflecting the tense atmosphere of the hearing.

Rowe Defends Record and Role

Rowe stated that he carried a radio and a weapon at the memorial, fully equipped to perform his duties. He emphasized his role was both symbolic and practical, aiming to reflect the Secret Service's commitment to duty and remembrance.

“I was there to show respect … for those who died on 9/11. Do not invoke 9/11 for political purposes,” Rowe argued, pushing back against Fallon’s criticisms.

Fallon retorted, insisting that his concerns were about security, not politics, accusing Rowe of avoiding direct answers to his questions.

Aftermath of the Hearing: Fallon's Continuing Critiques

After his time expired, Fallon continued to speak to reporters, reiterating his concerns about Rowe’s actions during the memorial. He suggested that Rowe was more interested in being seen than in ensuring security.

Fallon questioned whether Rowe had even attended the operational briefing that day, citing sources who claimed he did not. This, Fallon argued, was indicative of a broader issue of complacency within the Secret Service.

“My point in bringing it up was we clearly didn’t learn enough from the 13th when President Trump was almost killed by doing the same thing,” Fallon noted, referring to a previous security lapse.

Broader Implications for Secret Service Operations

The hearing reflected broader concerns about Secret Service operations, particularly in light of the July 13 assassination attempt on Trump. Lawmakers scrutinized the agency's procedures and responsiveness to potential threats.

Fallon highlighted complaints from within the Secret Service about Rowe's presence at the memorial, suggesting it was symptomatic of deeper issues within the agency.

Rowe concluded his testimony by affirming his commitment to the nation and dismissing allegations of political maneuvering, striving to clarify the role and intentions of the Secret Service at public events.

This incident underscores ongoing tensions and challenges within the Secret Service, as it navigates the challenges of protecting high-profile political figures.