After two assassination attempts and an ongoing threat from Iran, Donald Trump’s campaign has significantly ramped up security requests, including military aircraft with anti-missile capabilities and enhanced safety measures for his events, sources familiar with the discussions revealed. The campaign has asked for military transport systems capable of countering surface-to-air missiles as Trump travels across the country in the final weeks of his campaign.
President Biden, when asked about the requests, agreed they should be met, as long as they don’t include F-15 fighter jets. “We will provide everything he needs, as if he were a sitting president,” Biden said.
Trump’s co-campaign manager, Susie Wiles, initially raised these security concerns in a conversation with Biden’s chief of staff, Jeff Zients. She later formalized the requests with the acting Secret Service Director, Ronald Rowe, at the end of September. Zients ensured Wiles had direct communication with the Secret Service and Department of Homeland Security.
The campaign is also requesting access to Camp David vehicles for Trump’s motorcade, drones with thermal monitoring, and more ballistic glass for rallies. Additionally, they’ve asked for increased funding for local law enforcement to support Trump’s security detail and more administrative resources from the Secret Service.
Despite the heightened threats, including two failed assassination attempts, Trump’s team has expressed frustration with the delays in implementing these measures. As a result, Trump has started altering his travel routine, using different planes and accommodations. His security team has also made these changes due to a lack of trust in the Secret Service following the previous incidents and perceived lapses in resource provision.
While the Secret Service says it is providing the highest level of protection, including flight restrictions and advanced technology, some of Trump’s requests could face legal obstacles due to constitutional limitations on military operations within the U.S.
Following two recent near-assassination incidents and intelligence indicating an Iranian assassination threat, the Secret Service has expanded its presence, including counter-assault teams and additional agents. Trump’s campaign also asked for an observer in command centers to monitor law enforcement communications during events.
Despite the added precautions, some of Trump’s requests may not be feasible, with security resources often determined on a case-by-case basis.
