President-elect Donald Trump has expressed confidence in his safety following two assassination attempts earlier this year, attributing his sense of security to enhanced Secret Service protection. In a recent interview on NBC News’ “Meet The Press,” Trump discussed the incidents and the subsequent bolstering of his security detail.
During the interview, host Kristen Welker addressed the unprecedented nature of the campaign, highlighting the “horrific attempts” on Trump’s life. She inquired, “Do you feel safe going into the White House for the next four years?”
Trump responded affirmatively, stating, “I have confidence in Secret Service. I know the people. I got to know a lot of them, and I have confidence. It was a bad moment. Something shouldn’t have happened. But I have a lot of confidence, and they really stepped it up.”
He elaborated on the challenges faced during his campaign rallies, noting the disparity in crowd sizes and security resources compared to his opponent. “I do a rally, and you were at many of them. And I’d have 50,000 people. Joe would have a rally and he’d have 30 people,” Trump remarked. “And he had more Secret Service than me. My Secret Service was always asking for more manpower… and they couldn’t get it.”
Trump emphasized that while he doesn’t place blame on the Secret Service, as they consistently advocated for increased resources, the limitations were evident. He concluded, “I’m not blaming them really, because they were always fighting for more people. And they wouldn’t get — now, boy, do we have it.”
These comments come after two significant assassination attempts earlier in the year. On July 13, 2024, during a rally near Butler, Pennsylvania, Trump was grazed by a bullet in the ear, an attack that resulted in the death of an attendee and injuries to others. The assailant was neutralized by Secret Service agents. Subsequently, on September 15, 2024, another attempt occurred at Trump’s golf club in West Palm Beach, Florida, where an armed individual was apprehended before causing harm.
In response to these incidents, the Secret Service has intensified security measures for Trump, including increased staffing and the deployment of advanced surveillance technologies. Acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe testified before a House panel, acknowledging previous security lapses and outlining steps taken to prevent future threats.
As Trump prepares to assume office, the reinforced security protocols aim to ensure his safety amid heightened concerns. The Secret Service’s commitment to adapting and enhancing protective measures reflects the evolving nature of security challenges faced by high-profile political figures.
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Trump says that he feels “safe” heading into the White House after surviving assassination attempts earlier this year.
He said that the Secret Service wanted more assets to protect him but they were “restricted” by Biden. pic.twitter.com/rdhd7tLoA8
— Ryan Saavedra (@RealSaavedra) December 8, 2024