16 directed increased resources for Trump’s protection following the Butler shooting, including countersnipers, countersurveillance agents, counterassault teams, and drones, which were deployed at the golf course, according to Secret Service Acting Director Ronald Rowe. Despite these measures, law enforcement experts are still raising questions about the Secret Service’s protective measures, especially in light of the recent security breaches. As lawmakers consider extra funding for the Secret Service, concerns about communication and coordination between federal agents and local officers persist. The incidents involving an attempted assassination of Trump highlight the need for improved security protocols and collaboration to ensure the safety of high-profile individuals like the former president.
16 said the Secret Service “needs more help,” before suggesting that Congress should respond to the agency’s needs. Both Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) have said they’re considering pushing through additional funding for the agency.
Rowe said he was speaking with Congress about getting more funding for training and hiring more personnel.
In the wake of the incident, Trump has pinned some of the blame on Democrats’ rhetoric, citing ongoing remarks that he’s a “threat to democracy.”
The White House on Sept. 17 pushed back on the accusation.
“The president and the vice president have always forcefully, forcefully condemned violence in all forms, including political violence,” White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. And we certainly have never encouraged any violence in any way.
Both Biden and Harris condemned the apparent assassination attempt and political violence following the Florida incident.
Kelly said he wants to figure out what can be done to stop people from taking extreme actions, to ensure that “we are safe and secure.”
“Not just our presidential candidates, but also with America’s position to the world,” Kelly said. “I think we are way too vulnerable. … These are very dangerous times for America.”
The Epoch Times has reached out to the Secret Service for comment.
