On the 15th (local time), an assassination attempt involving a shooting targeting former U.S. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump occurred, drawing attention to future security measures. The assassination attempt took place at Trump's own "Trump International Golf Club" in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Known as a "golf enthusiast," former President Trump was reportedly playing golf on that day despite having no campaign schedule.
According to CNN, at the time of the shooting, former President Trump had just finished the 5th hole out of 18 and was moving to the 6th hole. The assassin, who engaged in a gunfight with the Secret Service (SS) protecting the presidential candidate, was several holes ahead of Trump.
As a real estate mogul owning golf courses across the United States, former President Trump is said to spend much of his time at golf courses he owns while managing various schedules. He not only takes breaks there but occasionally holds press conferences.
However, CNN reported that the SS found it difficult to carry out security duties while Trump was playing golf. CNN stated, "Among SS personnel, golf courses, especially those owned by former President Trump, have long been a source of security concerns while he plays golf." The golf courses have many forests and hills where assassins could conceal themselves, making security challenging.
Unlike other sitting presidents or presidential candidates, former President Trump does not block public access to golf courses or surrounding roads when he visits. Anyone who knows Trump's schedule can watch him play golf.
The West Palm Beach location where the incident occurred is adjacent to three major roads with heavy traffic.
Moreover, the fact that Trump is not a sitting president also makes security more difficult. West Palm Beach County officials stated, "If he were the sitting president, security agents would surround him, but the SS's coverage area was limited."
Rick Bradshaw, Palm Beach County Sheriff, told CNN, "Because the golf course is surrounded by forest, someone entering would not be easily noticed," adding, "If he were the sitting president, the entire golf course would have been secured."
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