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Lawmakers Seek Secret Service Briefing in Wake of Second Assassination Attempt on Trump

 September 16, 2024

An armed individual attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump while he was golfing in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sunday, prompting immediate security action by the U.S. Secret Service.

In response to the incident, a bipartisan task force has formally requested a briefing from the U.S. Secret Service, particularly given that the attack marks the second assassination attempt on Trump within a span of 64 days, raising fresh concerns over his safety and the agency's competence, as Fox News reports.

Bipartisan Task Force Responds to Incident

The gunman, identified as Ryan Routh, fled the scene but was later apprehended. Secret Service agents reportedly fired at Routh after he raised his weapon. The incident unfolded while Trump was enjoying a round of golf at his private club in West Palm Beach. No injuries were reported, and Trump was unharmed.

A bipartisan task force on Trump's safety, led by Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Jason Crow (D-CO), swiftly responded to the attack.

In a joint statement, Kelly and Crow expressed their concern over the ongoing threat to the former president. "The Task Force is monitoring this attempted assassination of former President Trump in West Palm Beach this afternoon," the statement read.

Recent History of Threats Against Trump

This latest attack is the second time in just over two months that Trump has been targeted. On July 13, a gunman fired eight rounds from an AR-15-style rifle during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The shooter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Crooks, fired from approximately 150 yards away, grazing Trump’s ear.

The bipartisan task force was formed shortly after that first assassination attempt. House Speaker Mike Johnson and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries established the task force on Aug. 4 to address growing concerns about threats to Trump’s safety. Sunday's incident has only heightened the urgency of the task force's efforts.

Call for U.S. Secret Service Briefing

In their statement, Kelly and Crow made clear that they had requested a briefing from the Secret Service to better understand the details of Sunday's event and how security measures were carried out. "We have requested a briefing with the U.S. Secret Service about what happened and how security responded," the representatives stated.

The task force emphasized that while they are relieved Trump was not harmed, they are deeply concerned about the potential for political violence. "We are thankful that the former president was not harmed but remain deeply concerned about political violence and condemn it in all of its forms," they added.

Ongoing Threats to Political Figures

Political violence has been a growing concern in the United States, with heightened security measures in place for both current and former political figures. This recent string of assassination attempts on Trump has highlighted the need for enhanced security and thorough investigations.

The task force pledged to continue monitoring the situation and share updates as they become available. "The Task Force will share updates as we learn more," Kelly and Crow promised in their statement.

Details of Incident

The attack took place at Trump's West Palm Beach golf club, a location where the former president has spent significant time since leaving office. According to reports, Routh, the gunman, positioned himself in a bush some distance from Trump. As he raised his AK-47, Secret Service agents opened fire, forcing the suspect to flee.

Routh was later captured, and authorities are investigating his motives. So far, no further details about his background or potential affiliations have been released. The swift response by Secret Service agents likely prevented a more tragic outcome, but the attack has nonetheless triggered widespread alarm.

Trump’s Safety Under Increased Scrutiny

With two assassination attempts in such a short period, Trump's security has become a focal point for law enforcement and political leaders alike. The task force formed in the aftermath of the July 13 incident is now working to ensure that no further attacks occur.

Sunday's incident has prompted renewed calls for vigilance, especially as Trump remains an influential figure in U.S. politics.

The briefing requested by the task force will likely provide further insights into the vulnerabilities that allowed these incidents to unfold and how they can be addressed moving forward.

Conclusion

The attempted assassination of former President Trump in West Palm Beach marks the second such incident in just over two months. On Sunday, Secret Service agents acted swiftly to protect Trump, firing upon a gunman armed with an AK-47. The assailant, Ryan Routh, fled but was later apprehended.

In response, a bipartisan task force has requested a briefing with the Secret Service to address growing concerns about political violence and Trump's safety. The task force, formed after a previous attack on July 13, continues to monitor the situation closely.