WASHINGTON — The Secret Service will use ballistic glass to protect former President Donald Trump so he can continue outdoor campaign events.
Such bulletproof glasses are already available for sitting presidents and vice presidents. The president is transported by military aircraft whenever he travels, but candidate and former president Trump does not have access to such military transportation support. The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive security provisions, said the ballistic glass will now be located within the country and moved by agents responsible for protecting it.
Ballistic glass won’t be required at every outdoor event, but to better protect Trump, it will likely be used when specific sites have problems or need extra security.
One of the officials said it was one of several security measures previously used only for office holders but added to Trump’s protection after the failed assassination attempt.
The Secret Service is also increasing personnel and technology to reduce threats around Trump during outdoor rallies, as well as increasing threat analysis and prevention for all protective details, including the deployment of counter-snipers and counter-surveillance, the official said.
The Secret Service has faced intense scrutiny and criticism since a gunman fired multiple shots at Trump, wounding him and two other rally-goers and killing another on July 13 during an outdoor rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Former Secret Service director Kimberly Cheatle said the presidential candidates are beefing up their security details after the shooting that led to her resignation.
Trump has not campaigned outdoors since the assassination attempt.