Thu Sep 19 08:00:45 UTC 2024: ## Secret Service Strained Under Mounting Threats, Two Assassination Attempts on Trump Highlight Need for Reform

**WASHINGTON, D.C.** – The U.S. Secret Service is facing unprecedented strain as it struggles to protect a growing number of individuals, including two failed assassination attempts on former President Donald Trump.

With responsibility for safeguarding up to 40 individuals, including current and former presidents, vice presidents, and their families, the agency is facing a manpower crisis, according to former Secret Service agent Bill Gage. He warns that the agency needs more than just additional agents, which can take up to two years to recruit and train. “We need legislation or an executive order to reform the agency,” Gage said.

The recent attempted assassination of Trump at his golf course in West Palm Beach, Florida, has prompted calls for increased funding and a comprehensive review of the Secret Service’s operations.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has announced the House is looking into providing additional funding to the agency, but stressed, “We don’t want to just throw money at a broken system.”

The threats against former President Trump are not isolated incidents. Recent months have seen a surge in threats targeting U.S. officials, including Vice President Kamala Harris and President Joe Biden.

The Secret Service’s mandate extends beyond presidential protection, encompassing foreign heads of state, distinguished visitors, and high-level cabinet members. The agency also protects major presidential candidates, presidents-elect, and vice presidents-elect.

Complicating the situation are the sprawling properties where presidents live and vacation, which are often less secure than designated protective locations like Camp David, the presidential country retreat.

Former agent Gage emphasized that the agency faces an “almost impossible job,” requiring a significant increase in manpower and a complete overhaul of its operations to address the escalating threats.

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