US House unanimously approves enhanced security for Trump post-attack

Unanimous vote supports Enhanced Presidential Security Act as concerns rise over threats to former president

WASHINGTON:

The House of Representatives unanimously passed a bill on Friday to enhance security for former US President Donald Trump following a recent assassination attempt.

The Enhanced Presidential Security Act, introduced by Representatives Mike Lawler and Ritchie Torres, mandates that the Secret Service apply consistent standards when determining the number of agents required to protect Presidents, Vice Presidents, and major candidates for these positions.

The bill passed with a 405-0 vote, though it remains uncertain how the Senate will proceed with the legislation. Torres expressed gratitude, alongside Lawler, for the unanimous support from their House colleagues, highlighting the bill's aim to address gaps in Secret Service protection for presidential candidates.

This vote occurred five days after the Secret Service foiled a second assassination attempt on Trump while he was playing golf in West Palm Beach, Florida. The suspect, identified as 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh, was spotted with a rifle outside Trump’s golf course. Secret Service agents fired at Routh, who fled but was later apprehended by local authorities.

The incident follows another assassination attempt two months earlier on 13 July, when Trump was grazed by a bullet during a campaign rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania. The gunman, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, fired at Trump but only managed to graze his right ear.