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Trump to Stand Behind Bulletproof Glass at NC Outdoor Rally

 August 21, 2024

Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump will be behind bulletproof glass during his outdoor campaign rally in Asheboro, North Carolina, on Wednesday, a heightened security measure that comes after an assassination attempt last month during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

This event marks Trump's first outdoor appearance since the attempt on his life, and the new security feature is a jarring, yet seemingly necessary precaution on the part of the Secret Service, as the Washington Examiner reports.

The rally is set for Asheville, which is a central location in the Tar Heel State, as part of the campaign's efforts to maintain momentum in the battleground state. With the Democratic National Convention taking place simultaneously in Chicago, Trump's rally also serves as counterprogramming to the Democrats' event.

Special Security Measures in Place

The Secret Service has implemented special security measures for the rally, including a see-through bulletproof barrier that is similar to the glass used in the president’s limousine.

Although the Secret Service has not provided specific details on the protective measures, officials emphasized their commitment to ensuring the safety of those under their protection.

Trump's running mate, Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH), will join him at the rally. This appearance by the Republican duo underscores the importance of North Carolina in the upcoming November election. Trump narrowly won the state in the 2020 election, defeating President Joe Biden by just over 1% of the vote.

Strategic Location of the Rally

The rally's location in Asheboro is strategically positioned between major North Carolina cities -- Charlotte, Greensboro, and Raleigh. This choice reflects the campaign's focus on energizing voters across the state.

North Carolina remains a key battleground state, with recent polling indicating a close race between Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.

A CBS News poll released on Friday shows Trump leading Harris by a narrow margin among registered voters in the state, with Trump at 50% and Harris at 48%. The Trump campaign aims to build on this lead by holding high-profile events like the rally in Asheboro.

Security Concerns and Lack of Official Comment

The decision to place Trump behind bulletproof glass is a direct response to the assassination attempt in July, which raised concerns about the safety of candidates during the campaign season.

Despite the public interest in these measures, both the Trump campaign and the Asheboro Police Department have declined to comment on the specifics of the security arrangements for the rally.

The Secret Service, when asked about the enhanced security, stated, "The Secret Service said it does not reveal means and measures for protecting those who are under its protection." This statement highlights the agency's policy of maintaining secrecy around security protocols.

Impact on North Carolina Voters

The rally in Asheboro is not just about security; it’s also a strategic move to galvanize support in a state that could be pivotal in the upcoming election. With North Carolina's status as a swing state, both campaigns are investing heavily in winning over voters. Trump's previous victory in the state, coupled with the recent poll results, suggests that the race will be fiercely contested.

As the November election approaches, events like today's rally will play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape in North Carolina. The presence of both Trump and Vance is expected to draw significant attention and could influence voter turnout in the weeks leading up to the election.

Conclusion: A Rally with High Stakes

In conclusion, Donald Trump's rally in Asheboro, North Carolina, marks his first outdoor appearance since an assassination attempt last month.

The event, held under heightened security with Trump behind bulletproof glass, highlights the ongoing concerns for candidate safety.

With North Carolina being a key battleground state, the rally also serves as a critical moment in Trump's campaign as he seeks to maintain his lead in the polls and counter the Democratic National Convention happening simultaneously in Chicago.

The outcome of this rally and others like it will be closely watched as the nation heads toward the November election.