The Trump campaign has increased its requests for security measures, including transportation by military aircraft and additional ground security, after two attempted assassinations and an ongoing threat from Iran. President Joe Biden has stated that Trump’s requests should be fulfilled as long as he doesn’t ask for F-15s. Requests have been made for access to military aircraft with deterrent systems to protect against potential threats as Trump travels across the US during the final weeks of the presidential campaign.
Requests from the Trump campaign have been made for enhanced security measures, including access to Camp David vehicles for Trump’s primary motorcade, access to military assets such as drones with thermal monitoring, and increased stockpiles of ballistic glass at key swing states to encase Trump at outdoor rallies. Additionally, the campaign has asked for more funding for local law enforcement officials who support the president’s security detail and for additional administrative support from Secret Service headquarters.
The Secret Service is working on formal requests for these resources that will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Defense, as well as other agencies that may be involved. The campaign has been frustrated by delays in implementing increased security measures and has taken steps to change up Trump’s routine, such as using different planes and staying at different properties, due to lost faith in the Secret Service following the attempts on Trump’s life.
Although some of the requests made by the Trump campaign may not be feasible for any presidential candidate and there may be legal issues regarding military involvement within the US, the Secret Service has stated that the former president is receiving the highest levels of protection. Additional security measures have been implemented since Trump’s near assassination in Pennsylvania and the threat from Iran, including increased presence around Trump, additional members on his security detail, and precautions such as traveling with a counter assault team.
The Secret Service has also allowed for an observer from the Trump campaign to be present in command centers during campaign events, providing access to law enforcement communications and a direct line of contact with senior campaign officials. Security resources are typically determined on a case-by-case basis, and changes have been made to address the specific threats facing Trump. The Secret Service has imposed flight restrictions and provided high-level technical security assets for Trump’s protection, including unmanned aerial vehicles and counter unmanned aerial surveillance systems.
Despite the heightened security threats facing Trump, the Secret Service maintains that they will continue to adjust and enhance their protective posture as needed. Trump’s team has expressed concerns with the Secret Service headquarters but not with his personal security detail, many of whom have been with him since leaving office. The campaign has faced restrictions on rally size due to security concerns, but every president and presidential candidate has had limitations placed on their movement for security reasons.
