On Monday, the US Secret Service defended its role in protecting former President Donald Trump after a second apparent assassination attempt occurred. The incident took place on Sunday at Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach, Florida. The suspect, 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh, was found with a rifle but did not fire any shots. He was arrested and charged with illegal firearms possession.
Secret Service acting director Ronald Rowe emphasized that the suspect did not have a direct line of sight on Trump and failed to fire. The agency insists it maintains the highest level of protection for Trump, despite criticism. Routh, who had spent nearly 12 hours on the perimeter of the golf course, was apprehended after a brief chase.
Trump has used the incident to blame his political rivals, Kamala Harris and President Joe Biden, accusing them of inflaming tensions with their rhetoric. Both Biden and Harris have condemned political violence, with Biden expressing relief over Trump’s safety. The Secret Service chief acknowledged the heightened security environment and the need for increased support for the agency.
The incident adds to the already tense political climate ahead of the November 5 election. Trump has made inflammatory claims about his opponents, which has intensified the discourse around his campaign. The Secret Service has faced scrutiny for its handling of recent threats, including a prior incident in July where Trump was slightly injured.
