Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley has brought attention to whistleblower allegations regarding a second assassination attempt against former President Trump at his golf course in West Palm Beach, Florida. The whistleblower, who has direct knowledge of Secret Service protection at the location, claimed that there are 'known vulnerabilities' in the fence line surrounding the course that were not adequately addressed.
The whistleblower alleged that Secret Service protocol to station agents at vulnerable spots along the fence line was not followed during Trump's visit on September 15. This lapse in security allowed a gunman to remain near the course for 12 hours without detection until the former president was in close proximity.
Senator Hawley emphasized that it has been standard Secret Service protocol to address known vulnerabilities at the golf course and station agents accordingly. He expressed concern over the failure to sweep the perimeter or utilize surveillance measures such as drones during the incident.
The suspected threat posed by Ryan Routh was neutralized by Secret Service agents, who subsequently arrested him on charges related to firearm possession. Hawley raised questions about the overall security measures in place that day, including the presence of personnel at vulnerable locations, perimeter sweeps, and the use of surveillance technologies.
Hawley highlighted the need for a comprehensive counter surveillance plan and urged the Secret Service to provide clarity on the protocols followed during the incident. The senator emphasized that the prolonged presence of a potential threat near the former president raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of security measures at the Trump International Golf Club.
