The Secret Service (USSS) has developed and approved a new security plan that will allow former President Donald Trump to resume holding outdoor events. According to a Secret Service official, bulletproof glass shields will be installed on stage to protect Trump, following the July 13 assassination attempt at his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
During the Butler rally, Trump was narrowly grazed by a bullet while on stage, prompting the USSS to recommend that his team hold future rallies and events indoors. Since that incident, Trump has not appeared at any outdoor events.
The decision to deploy bulletproof glass represents a significant security upgrade, typically reserved for sitting presidents and vice presidents when deemed necessary. “Former presidents and candidates don’t usually receive bulletproof glass or support from the Department of Defense,” the official explained. “This glass has to be transported on trucks and vans.”
To ensure readiness, the USSS has begun strategically storing ballistic glass at various locations across the country, making it easier to access for Trump campaign events. The plan was finalized by Acting USSS head Ronald Rowe, who took over after the departure of former USSS director Kimberly Cheatle. Cheatle had met with Trump’s team to propose the creation of a new security plan for outdoor events.
The official also mentioned that additional technical security measures, which are not typically provided to presidential candidates, will be implemented. However, the specific tools and methods were not disclosed.
Trump aides informed the Washington Post that the former president is eager to resume outdoor rallies, including one in Butler, but he has insisted that he will not appear on stage outdoors again without the protective glass in place.