President Joe Biden stated on Monday that the Secret Service may require additional staff following a suspected assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump the previous day. Speaking with reporters, Biden mentioned he had not yet received a comprehensive report on the Sunday incident at Trump’s golf course in Florida, but expressed relief that Trump was unharmed. “Thank God the president is okay,” he remarked, referring to Trump. Biden emphasized the importance of supporting the Secret Service, adding that Congress should address their needs. However, he also noted, “They might determine whether they need more personnel.”
Biden isn't alone in advocating for increased Secret Service resources after this second attempt on Trump’s life. Representative Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) took to social media, calling the two attempts within 60 days "unacceptable" and urging the Secret Service to inform Congress of their needs for enhanced security measures around Trump. Khanna pushed for bipartisan action to approve additional resources immediately.
The FBI confirmed it is investigating the incident as a potential assassination attempt, though details have been scarce. According to Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, Secret Service agents spotted a rifle protruding through a chain-link fence on the outskirts of Trump’s golf club. When they confronted the suspect, he fled but was later apprehended in Marion County. Images from the scene revealed an AK-style rifle, a GoPro camera, and two backpacks, with one photo showing the gun through the fence.
During a press briefing, Sheriff Bradshaw acknowledged that security at the golf course was lower since Trump is no longer president but affirmed that the provided security was appropriate. He speculated that future visits by Trump would likely involve a stronger security presence.
In a separate incident in July, Trump was targeted at a rally in Pennsylvania, where he was grazed on the ear. That attack, which left one person dead and two others injured, prompted scrutiny of the Secret Service’s protective measures.
Both President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris expressed relief after being briefed on the Florida incident. Harris condemned political violence and commended law enforcement’s vigilance, pledging that the Biden administration would ensure the Secret Service has the necessary resources. Trump also thanked law enforcement and the Secret Service on his Truth Social platform, while his running mate, Senator JD Vance, expressed gratitude that Trump was unharmed, sharing his relief and appreciation for the situation's outcome.
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