Biden Calls for More Secret Service Resources Following Another Attempt on Trump's Life
President Biden's Statement
President Joe Biden expressed on Monday that the Secret Service is in need of more staff following an alleged assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump the previous day. Biden, in his morning address to the press, stated that he was yet to receive a comprehensive report on the Sunday incident at Trump’s Florida golf course. He expressed relief that the former president was unharmed.
Biden referred to Trump saying, “Thank God the president is OK.” He further added that the Secret Service requires additional support and urged Congress to respond to their needs. He left it to the Secret Service to decide whether they need more personnel.
Other Officials Echo Biden's Sentiments
Biden is not the only U.S. elected official advocating for more resources for the Secret Service following the second assassination attempt on Trump. Representative Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) expressed his concern over the two assassination attempts on a former President and the Republican nominee within 60 days. He called on the Secret Service to present their resource needs to Congress and advocated for a bipartisan vote to allocate the required resources.
FBI Investigation and Details of the Incident
The FBI confirmed to The Epoch Times on Sunday that they are treating the incident as an “apparent assassination attempt,” but have released few details since then. Law enforcement officials, including Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, revealed at a news conference that Secret Service agents had encountered the alleged shooter after spotting a rifle muzzle protruding through a chain-link fence on the outer perimeter of the Trump International Golf Club in Palm Beach County, Florida. The suspect, who remains unidentified by law enforcement, was apprehended by sheriff’s officials in Marion County, according to the sheriff.
Security Measures at Trump's Golf Course
During the news conference, Sheriff Bradshaw noted that security at the Trump golf course was restricted as Trump is not the incumbent president. However, he asserted that the agency had offered the appropriate level of protection. He speculated that there would likely be more security personnel around the perimeter the next time Trump visits a golf course.
Previous Assassination Attempt
Trump survived an assassination attempt in July while speaking at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where his right ear was struck. The shooting resulted in one death and two injuries. The FBI identified Thomas Matthew Crooks as the perpetrator. This incident raised questions about the Secret Service's security measures at the rally site.
Reactions to the Incident
Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed about the probable assassination attempt in Florida. Both expressed relief that Trump was not harmed. Harris condemned political violence and called for efforts to prevent this incident from leading to more violence. She praised the Secret Service and law enforcement for their vigilance and assured that the Biden administration would provide the Secret Service with the necessary resources and protective measures to fulfill its mission.
Trump thanked law enforcement and the Secret Service for their response in a Truth Social post issued late Sunday. His running mate, Senator JD Vance (R-Ohio), also expressed gratitude that Trump had not been harmed.
Bottom Line
The recent assassination attempts on former President Trump have raised significant concerns about the security measures in place for former presidents. The call for more resources and personnel for the Secret Service by President Biden and other officials highlights the seriousness of these threats. It's a reminder of the constant dangers faced by individuals in such high-profile positions. What are your thoughts on this matter? Do share this article with your friends and let us know your views. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is available every day at 6 pm.
