The United States Secret Service has warned that the federal agency cannot protect President Donald Trump while he plays golf.
Following recent assassination attempts, the Secret Service flagged significant security gaps at Trump’s frequented golf courses.
The Secret Service has advised that Trump’s security needs major enhancements while he golfs.
The agency cited recent threats to his safety, the New York Post reported.
The concerns were voiced after an alarming incident near Trump’s West Palm Beach golf club.
On Sunday, a would-be assassin armed with an assault rifle was apprehended.
Acting Director Ronald Rowe discussed the security issues with Trump at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.
The meeting, occurring just a day after the incident, underscored the vulnerabilities Trump faces at his properties.
Ryan Routh, the accused gunman, was found mere hundreds of yards from Trump, leading to urgent calls for fortified security measures.
Routh, equipped with an SKS assault rifle, was quickly neutralized by Secret Service agents.
After an agent opened fire on Routh, he fled but was later captured on a nearby highway shortly after.
Trump’s repeated requests for increased security over the past two years, especially after a close call in July, have been met with resistance due to resource constraints.
The July assassination attempt had already heightened concerns within Trump’s team.
During the meeting, Rowe proposed that Trump consider golfing at the more secure military base at Joint Base Andrews.
The suggestion aims to mitigate risks given the challenges of securing properties adjacent to public roads.
Trump expressed apprehension about the feasibility of continuing his golf routine under such threats, particularly when photographers are nearby.
The disparity in security between sitting and former presidents has become a focal point, with Trump’s aides frustrated over perceived inequities.
Unlike Trump, President Joe Biden enjoys robust protection even in public spaces like beaches.
These frustrations are compounded by the fact that Biden, who has spoken with Trump regarding the assassination attempts, agreed that more needs to be done.
The provision of additional security, however, hinges on congressional approval for the necessary funding.
Trump’s security detail, as voiced in his conversation with Biden, urgently requires more personnel to manage the heightened risks.
Recent events have sparked broader discussions on the adequacy of security for high-profile political figures.
The Secret Service’s quick response to the Routh threat underscored their crucial role in safeguarding former presidents.
Despite appreciating the Secret Service’s efforts, the tension during discussions about security enhancements indicates significant concern about the current measures’ sufficiency.
The incident has not only brought to light the ongoing security challenges but also the continuous struggle to balance public accessibility with necessary security protocols.