Fact Check: "In July 2023, the Secret Service ramped up security for Donald Trump after learning of a plot to kill him during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania."
What We Know
In July 2023, the U.S. Secret Service did indeed increase security measures for former President Donald Trump. This decision was influenced by intelligence reports indicating a potential assassination plot against him, specifically linked to Iranian operatives (source-4). The heightened security was part of a broader effort to ensure Trump's safety during public appearances, particularly in light of the threats identified.
On July 13, 2024, during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, Trump was shot in the ear by a gunman, Thomas Crooks, who fired multiple rounds before being neutralized by a Secret Service counter-sniper (source-3). This incident underscored the necessity of the increased security measures that had been implemented prior to the event.
Analysis
The claim that the Secret Service ramped up security for Trump due to a plot to kill him is supported by credible sources. The Associated Press reported on the internal review conducted by the Secret Service, which highlighted communication failures and a lack of adequate security measures that contributed to the assassination attempt. Furthermore, the CNN report corroborates that the Secret Service had indeed received intelligence about a potential Iranian plot, prompting the agency to bolster security for Trump.
However, while the reports confirm the increase in security, they also reveal significant lapses during the actual event. The Secret Service's internal review pointed out that staffers assessed the risks associated with the rally's location as acceptable, which ultimately led to critical failures in protecting Trump (source-1). This indicates that while security was ramped up, the execution of those measures was flawed.
The reliability of the sources is strong, as they include official reports from the Secret Service and reputable news organizations like the Associated Press and CNN. These sources are known for their journalistic integrity and thorough fact-checking processes.
Conclusion
The claim that the Secret Service increased security for Donald Trump after learning of a plot to kill him during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, is True. The decision was based on credible intelligence regarding a potential assassination plot, leading to heightened security measures. However, the subsequent events at the rally revealed significant operational failures that compromised the effectiveness of those security measures.
Sources
- U.S. Secret Service Releases Summary of Mission Assurance Investigation
- Independent Review Panel Final Report
- Secret Service report offers new details on failures during Trump ...
- Attempted assassination of Donald Trump in Pennsylvania
- Security Is Tighter for Trump Rally at Site of July ...
- Secret Service ramped up security after receiving intel of Iranian plot ...
- New report details stunning Secret Service leadership ...