The U.S. Secret Service is allowing former President Donald Trump to resume outdoor campaign rallies by surrounding his podium with bulletproof glass, law enforcement officials told several news outlets. Typically reserved for sitting presidents, this measure comes after an attempted assassination during a rally in Pennsylvania in July.
The Secret Service recommended that Trump avoid outdoor events following the incident, in which a gunman fired at him from a rooftop 400 feet away, grazing his ear and killing a man in the crowd. Since then, Trump has only held indoor events.
Although the Secret Service declined to comment on specific security measures, Trump’s protective detail is preparing to use ballistic glass at select outdoor events when necessary. Trump has privately expressed a desire to return to outdoor rallies, with added security precautions.
“The Secret Service use of UpArmored glass around former President Trump is another step to ensure the campaign is and remains secure,” former Secret Service agent Don Mihalek said.
Sources indicate that the Secret Service is arranging multiple sets of the glass to be available across the country for quick deployment.
This increased protection includes enhanced staffing and technology for Trump, Vice President Kamala Harris and their running mates.