In light of the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, the Secret Service has advised the Trump campaign to discontinue scheduling outdoor rallies. This recommendation follows the July 13 shooting incident in Butler, Pennsylvania, where the former president was injured, one attendee was killed, and two others were critically wounded.
According to a report by The Washington Post, Secret Service officials have expressed concerns about the security risks associated with large outdoor events featuring the 78-year-old Republican nominee. As a result, the Trump campaign is now focusing on indoor venues for future gatherings.
Read: US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle Resigns After Attempted Trump Assassination
The campaign’s next two events are set to be held in enclosed arenas: a multipurpose arena in Charlotte, North Carolina, and a hockey arena in St. Cloud, Minnesota. The first rally since the assassination attempt, which left Trump with a bloody ear, was also held indoors in Grand Rapids, Michigan, last Saturday.
Historically, Trump has favored outdoor rallies, often drawing thousands of enthusiastic supporters. Airports, fairgrounds, and parks have been frequent locations for these events since his initial presidential campaign in 2016 and throughout his 2024 bid. The two rallies immediately preceding the shooting were held outdoors in Chesapeake, Virginia, and at Trump’s golf course in Doral, Florida.
These rallies typically feature a lineup of prominent speakers before Trump takes the stage. However, the security concerns have prompted a shift in strategy to ensure the safety of attendees and the former president.
Read: Hot Weather Quashed Security On Rooftop Used By Trump Rally Shooter In Pennsylvania
The fallout from the Butler, Pennsylvania, incident has been significant. Former Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned on Tuesday after facing bipartisan criticism for the agency’s failure to adequately protect Trump at the rally. Additionally, Secret Service officials had repeatedly denied Trump’s requests for enhanced security over the past two years, citing resource limitations.
The Trump campaign’s decision to move rallies indoors reflects a heightened focus on security in response to the assassination attempt and ongoing threats.
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