New Act Unveils Major Security Boost for Presidential Nominees

Man wearing an earpiece, touching his ear.

A new bill aims to enhance security for presidential and vice-presidential nominees following recent attempts on former President Donald Trump’s life.

At a Glance

Bipartisan frustration with the Secret Service grows after two assassination attempts on Donald Trump.
Senators urge expanded investigations into Secret Service protocols.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer supports increased Secret Service resources.
Republican and Democrat lawmakers demand more funding for the Secret Service.
Recent arrest of Ryan Routh raises questions about Trump’s current security measures.

Senators Push for Enhanced Security Measures

After a second alleged assassination attempt targeting former President Donald Trump, Senator Rick Scott, R-Fla., and other Republican senators have introduced the Protect Our Presidents Act. This legislation directs the U.S. Secret Service to provide the same level of security for presidential and vice-presidential nominees as for sitting presidents. The bill, co-sponsored by Senators James Lankford, Marco Rubio, James Risch, Roger Marshall, Ted Budd, and Josh Hawley, mandates periodic updates to Congress about the security status of these candidates.

Growing concerns about the Secret Service’s effectiveness have been voiced by lawmakers from both parties. In the aftermath of another attempt on Trump’s life—this time involving Ryan Routh, who was arrested after allegedly pointing an assault-style rifle at Trump while he was golfing—many are questioning the robustness of current security protocols.

I will be introducing legislation to ensure both presidential nominees receive the same level of Secret Service protection as a sitting U.S. president.

Congress can and must provide the resources to ensure the safety of President Trump, Vice President Harris, and all future…

— Senator Thom Tillis (@SenThomTillis) September 16, 2024

Bipartisan Support for Increased Funding

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer indicated that the Senate might urgently consider increasing the Secret Service’s funding, highlighting the bipartisan concern for ensuring former presidents’ safety. Senators from across the aisle, including Chuck Grassley and Elizabeth Warren, have called for a full investigation and enhanced protective measures for Trump.

Both Republicans and Democrats are united in supporting more funding for the agency. The Secret Service, led by Acting Director Ronald Rowe following the resignation of former Director Kimberly Cheatle, is under intense scrutiny, as evidenced by the recent Senate hearings.

Call for Transparency and Accountability

Senator Josh Hawley spearheaded legislation requiring the Secret Service to disclose all documents related to the failed assassination attempt on July 13, 2024. This measure was unanimously adopted by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.

“We’re one step closer to the truth,” Hawley added upon the passage of his amendment.

Senator Hawley released a whistleblower report outlining the Secret Service and Department of Homeland Security’s failures in adequately protecting Trump, adding another layer of urgency to the legislative push for increased security.

A Race Against Time

To prevent a government shutdown, the federal budget must be finalized by Sept. 30, creating a crucial window to address the Secret Service’s funding needs. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle are seizing this opportunity to fast-track provisions for enhanced security for all presidential candidates, underscoring the bipartisan resolve to address these security breaches.

“Given the way that Secret Service and DHS has stonewalled this committee, I just think it’s incumbent upon us to say we want this information,” Senator Hawley noted.

The push for these reforms comes amid calls for an immediate overhaul of the Secret Service’s procedures following two close calls in recent months. As the Protect Our Presidents Act heads to the House, its bipartisan support suggests a robust legislative effort to ensure safety for future presidential and vice-presidential candidates.