Around 7 P.M. on September 19, 2014, a man named Omar Gonzalez was seen scaling the north fence of the White House lawn. Gonzalez then proceeded past the gate. The man continued to run upon being spotted. It was originally believed Gonzalez did not make it far beyond the gate; however, it has since been verified he got much farther.
According to Secret Service Director Julia Pierson, the intruder, once detained, claimed to have information for the president. Gonzalez believed the atmosphere was collapsing, and wanted to get the word out to the American Public. He is allegedly not mentally ill or dangerous, yet it has not been confirmed.
The secret service, following protocol, did not engage in a confrontation with Gonzalez. Yet, many feel the secret service should have acted differently. In fact, this is not the only security breach in recent times. White house officials worry the American public will misinterpret these breaches as more problematic than they are. Officials assure Americans proper action is being taken.
Some say however, it is not sufficient to fail only a few times. The secret service should always be performing at 100 percent. This being one of a string of recent break-ins, people worry about the the safety of the president and the country. Pierson, facing tough questions from Jason Chaffetz chairman of the oversight panel’s subcommittee on national security, simple responds saying there is always changes to be made.
During a time period with terrorist groups like ISIS and the Ebola Epidemic, the secret service is working to improve its response to break-ins. This hopefully will protect the American public, and control the spread of disease. In fact, changes have been near constant since the events of 911.