The Secret Service has reportedly denied some of former President Donald Trump’s requests for additional security resources over the past two years. According to an official with the agency, extra security accommodations could not always be granted to Trump due to the department’s limited resources. This revelation was first reported by The Washington Post. The requests that were denied did not include the July 13 shooting at Trump’s Pennsylvania rally, where the former president was injured, one person was killed, and two others were critically wounded.
In instances where specific Secret Service specialized units or resources were not provided, the agency made modifications to ensure the security of the protectee, as stated by Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi. These modifications could include utilizing state or local partners to provide specialized functions or identifying alternatives to reduce public exposure of a protectee. Guglielmi’s recent statement contradicts his previous denial of the agency rebuffing Trump team’s requests for additional security.
Following the attempted assassination of Trump, the Secret Service has come under intense scrutiny. Lawmakers, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, have been pressuring the agency and its director, Kimberly Cheatle, to explain any security lapses that allowed a gunman to mount a rooftop near Trump’s rally and open fire. Trump was grazed on the ear by a bullet during the incident. Despite calls for her resignation, Cheatle has stated that she will remain in her post. She is expected to testify on security protocols at the rally shooting in several hearings on Capitol Hill this week.
Overall, the denial of Trump’s requests for additional security resources raises questions about the Secret Service’s ability to protect high-profile individuals effectively. The limited resources available to the agency may have compromised the security of the former president in some instances. The need for improved communication and coordination within the agency to address such security challenges has become apparent. As the Secret Service faces further scrutiny and demands for accountability, it remains to be seen how they will enhance their security protocols and address any lapses in providing adequate protection to those under their watch.
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