House Majority Leader Steve Scalise announced on Tuesday that lawmakers are in the process of making minor adjustments to a bill that would require equal Secret Service protection for presidential candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, similar to the protection provided to President Joe Biden. The aim is to have the bill ready for discussion on the floor later this week.
Scalise expressed optimism that the bill, known as the presidential protection bill, will garner bipartisan support. He mentioned that a few minor changes are being made to address specific issues before presenting it for consideration.
House Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized that ensuring the safety of presidential candidates is a bipartisan concern. He highlighted the importance of providing adequate protection, especially for candidates facing significant security threats. Johnson stressed that the bill is a necessary step to fulfill the obligation of safeguarding political figures, regardless of party affiliation.
Johnson further stated that protecting the nominees for president, particularly those facing heightened risks, is a crucial matter that transcends political divisions. He underscored the urgency of taking proactive measures to enhance security for all candidates vying for the highest office in the country.
The proposed legislation aims to ensure that both major party nominees receive comparable levels of Secret Service protection during their campaigns, aligning with the protection afforded to the sitting president. Lawmakers are working diligently to address any remaining issues and finalize the bill for prompt consideration by the House.