US federal agencies are reassessing security arrangements for upcoming public appearances by President Donald Trump following a violent incident near the White House Correspondents' Dinner, underscoring the growing risks around high-profile presidential events.
According to Associated Press, law enforcement, including the United States Secret Service, is reviewing how to manage a packed calendar of indoor and outdoor events where Trump is expected to appear in the coming months.
These include celebrations marking the nation's 250th anniversary, FIFA World Cup engagements and political rallies ahead of midterm elections.
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The reassessment comes after a man armed with guns and knives attempted to storm a Washington hotel ballroom where Trump was scheduled to speak on Saturday.
It marks the third violent episode in proximity to Trump in under two years, sharpening concerns over balancing public accessibility with security.
A person briefed on the discussions said the Secret Service had already begun “reevaluating its security footing,” noting that threat levels were elevated even before the incident due to multiple risks, including two assassination attempts in 2024 and heightened geopolitical tensions.
“I can't imagine that there's any profession that is more dangerous,” Trump said Saturday night from the White House.
Officials also warned of the risk of copycat attacks. Agents tasked with protective intelligence are revisiting recent threats, with one source noting that such high-profile incidents can often trigger similar acts.
Despite criticism over security lapses at the event, authorities defended their response. “Our multilayered protection works,” Secret Service Director Sean Curran said, a view echoed by Trump, who told CBS News' 60 Minutes: “Those guys did a good job last night. They did a really good job.”
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Still, questions have been raised over access controls. Republican lawmaker Michael McCaul said protocols may need revisiting, suggesting authorities “reconsider having both the president and vice president together at something like that.”
Security experts say further tightening is likely. Measures under consideration include enhanced screening, stricter perimeters and even bulletproof shielding at venues.
Ronald Kessler, author of In the President's Secret Service, said authorities could expand physical protections, while warning of logistical challenges. “Presidents don't like to have too much protection,” he said, noting the inherent tension between safety and public engagement.
The episode highlights a persistent dilemma in US presidential security, ensuring protection without isolating leaders from public life.
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