Trump Campaign Seeks Enhanced Security Measures Ahead of Election

In response to two attempted assassinations and ongoing threats from Iran, Donald Trump’s campaign is intensifying its requests for security enhancements as the former president gears up for the final weeks of the presidential campaign. According to three sources familiar with the discussions, these requests include transportation on military aircraft equipped with anti-missile capabilities and additional ground security at Trump’s campaign events.

The urgency of these requests has drawn the attention of President Joe Biden, who, when asked about the matter, expressed his willingness to accommodate Trump’s security needs—“as long as he doesn’t ask for F-15s.” Biden stated that he has directed the relevant departments to provide whatever is necessary to ensure Trump’s safety, treating him as if he were still a sitting president.

The push for enhanced security began a couple of weeks ago, when Susie Wiles, co-campaign manager for Trump, reached out to Biden’s chief of staff, Jeff Zients. Following this initial conversation, Wiles formally requested additional security measures on September 30, during a call with acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe. Zients reportedly facilitated a direct connection between Wiles and leadership at the Department of Homeland Security and the Secret Service, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to providing Trump with the highest level of protection.

Among the specific resources requested by Trump’s campaign are vehicles from Camp David for his motorcade, as well as military assets like drones equipped with thermal monitoring capabilities. The campaign has also asked the Secret Service to bolster its stockpiles of ballistic glass across key swing states to protect Trump during outdoor rallies. Additionally, they are seeking more funding for local law enforcement agencies that assist in securing Trump and extra administrative support from Secret Service headquarters.

The Secret Service is currently working to formalize these requests, which will be forwarded to the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Defense, and any other necessary agencies. However, sources close to the campaign have expressed frustration that additional security measures have yet to be implemented, given the elevated threats facing Trump. In response, the campaign has already begun making changes to its security protocols.

One notable adjustment includes Trump altering his travel routines, such as using different planes for events and choosing alternate accommodations. These changes stem from a lack of confidence in the Secret Service, especially following the recent assassination attempts and the denial of certain security resources in the past. Trump’s team remains critical of the leadership at Secret Service headquarters while expressing trust in his personal detail, many of whom have been with him since his presidency.

Despite these requests, some of them may be considered unfeasible for a presidential candidate. Trump has reportedly voiced his dissatisfaction about having to hold smaller rallies due to security concerns. Historically, all presidential candidates face restrictions on their movement for security reasons, and resource allocation is typically assessed on a case-by-case basis.

In a statement, Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi asserted that Trump is receiving the highest level of protection. He noted that the agency has implemented flight restrictions over Trump’s residences and during his travels. Guglielmi emphasized that the former president has access to advanced security technology, including unmanned aerial vehicles and counter-surveillance systems.

However, the campaign’s requests for additional resources could encounter legal challenges due to constitutional restrictions on military operations within the United States. Following the near-assassination attempt in July and another threat where a shooter allegedly set up a “sniper’s nest” near Trump’s Florida golf course, the Secret Service has increased its presence and heightened security measures.

Since these incidents, the Secret Service has added personnel to Trump’s security detail and frequently travels with a counter-assault team. Agents previously assigned to less critical roles have also been reassigned to bolster Trump’s protection.

Moreover, following the near-assassination in Pennsylvania, the Trump campaign requested permission to have an observer present in command centers during campaign events. This individual would be privy to law enforcement communications and maintain direct contact with senior campaign officials, further enhancing security coordination.

As the 2024 election approaches, the heightened focus on security reflects the complexities and dangers that political figures face in an increasingly tense atmosphere. The Trump campaign’s comprehensive approach to security underscores the significant risks associated with public appearances and the importance of maintaining voter engagement amidst these challenges.