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Trump’s golfing has always generated security concerns, particularly for the Secret Service. The president’s love for golf and frequent outings to various golf courses have raised alarm among security experts.
The recent incident at Trump’s South Florida golf club, where a suspected assassination attempt took place, has intensified worries about the security risks associated with his golfing habit. The presence of the shooter with a rifle at the club highlighted the vulnerabilities of open spaces like golf courses when it comes to protecting high-profile individuals like former President Donald Trump.
While most presidents have enjoyed playing golf during their terms, Trump’s consistent and predictable golfing routine has created unique challenges for security personnel. Journalists and onlookers have observed the former president on the golf course, often without any interference from the Secret Service.
The incident at the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach served as a wake-up call to the security community. The quick response of the Secret Service agent who neutralized the threat saved Trump from harm. However, the incident underscored the difficulty of protecting a president or former president engaged in outdoor activities like golf for several hours.
Paul Eckloff, a retired Secret Service agent who served as Trump’s assistant detail commander, emphasized the complex nature of securing outdoor events like golf outings. The lack of structures to shield the protectee from potential threats makes golf courses particularly challenging environments for security personnel.
The risks associated with Trump’s frequent golf trips have been a topic of concern for both active and retired Secret Service officers. Mike Olson, a veteran special agent, highlighted the predictability of Trump’s golf outings, which poses a greater security risk compared to other presidents.
Jillian Snider, a former NYPD officer and policy director at the R Street Institute, pointed out the vulnerabilities of golf courses due to their open nature. While the lack of buildings can inhibit a would-be gunman, it also provides a clear line of sight for an experienced shooter.
The issue of securing Trump’s golf clubs and country clubs has been a long-standing challenge for the Secret Service and Trump’s associates. The public accessibility of these properties and the unpredictable nature of Trump’s interactions with club members and guests have added to the security concerns.
Concerns about threats extending beyond the property boundaries have further complicated the security protocols for safeguarding Trump during his golf outings. The proximity of golf courses to public areas and major roadways limits the Secret Service’s control over the surrounding environment.
The reduced security measures post-Trump’s presidency have added another layer of risk to his golf trips. The shrinking security team and the absence of White House staff monitoring his movements have made his golf outings even more vulnerable to potential threats.
Despite the challenges, security experts acknowledge the need to adapt and enhance security measures to mitigate the risks associated with Trump’s golfing habit. Suggestions such as making his outings less predictable and implementing additional security protocols have been proposed to ensure his safety during future golf trips.
As the Secret Service continues to grapple with the security implications of protecting a high-profile figure like Trump on golf courses, the need for comprehensive planning and coordination remains paramount. While every protectee faces inherent risks, the unique features of golf courses demand a tailored approach to ensure the safety and security of individuals like former President Donald Trump.
