Biden orders Trump to be protected as 'sitting president'
Oct 12, 2024
Washington [US], October 12: US presidential candidate Donald Trump has requested to be transported by military aircraft and President Joe Biden has ordered his predecessor to be protected as a 'sitting president'.
After being the target of two failed assassination attempts, former US President Donald Trump has asked the government to increase security for him as election day approaches.
According to The New York Times , Mr. Trump's campaign contacted White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients and acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe to request the mobilization of military systems to protect the Republican candidate.
CNN quoted a source as saying that Mr. Trump wanted to travel by military aircraft with anti-missile capabilities. In addition, they also requested to expand the no-fly zone over his residence and campaign locations, and install bulletproof glass at events, according to The Washington Post .
Mr Trump's team has reportedly told authorities they have had to reschedule or cancel campaign events because of a lack of protection.
However, a US Secret Service representative confirmed that the former president is receiving the highest level of protection but still requires more. "The Secret Service will remain vigilant and continue to adjust and increase protection readiness as needed to mitigate evolving threats," the representative said.
President Joe Biden said on October 11 that the forces should meet Mr. Trump's request, "as long as he does not ask for an F-15," referring to the US fighter jet.
"I've asked the department to give him everything he needs, treating him as a sitting president. If the request is on the list, that's fine," President Biden said.
Mr. Trump has not commented on the above information.
Source: Thanh Nien Newspaper
