Trump requests 'presidential' level security amidst Iran threat
6:31 AM EDT, October 12, 2024
Donald Trump's team has demanded that the Secret Service provide him with the same level of protection as the President of the United States. Joe Biden has already responded to these requests, stating, "I told them to give him whatever he needs." He added humorously, "As long as he doesn't ask for an F-15."
According to The Washington Post and The New York Times, Trump's campaign manager, Susie Wiles, contacted the White House and the Secret Service to enhance the Republican candidate's security measures.
The former president's team requests several measures, including a military aircraft to transport Trump or fighter jet escorts for his plane. They are also seeking military vehicles, increased airspace restrictions over his properties and rally locations, and the installation of bulletproof glass for campaign events in seven key states that Trump frequently visits.
Trump is reportedly asking for "advanced classified military measures that are typically reserved for sitting presidents."
The New York Times notes that Trump's demands are unprecedented, as no candidate has ever received a level of protection equal to that of a sitting president.
Biden: Give him everything as if he were the sitting president
This request is reportedly related to intelligence suggesting that Iran is still actively planning an attack on Trump as retaliation for the killing of the Revolutionary Guards' special forces commander Qasem Soleimani in 2020.
When asked if he agreed to Trump's request for military aircraft, President Joe Biden joked, "As long as he doesn't ask for an F-15."
Biden further commented, "I said to give him everything he needs, as if he were the sitting president. Give him everything he needs; if it fits into that category, that's fine. But if not, he won't be able to use it," he added.
