BOSTON — Local law enforcement experts in Massachusetts said security will likely be on high alert until November due to an apparent attempted murder about former President Donald Trump at his Florida golf club on Sunday.
Weapon found at golf course
Trump’s campaign said the former president was “safe and unharmed.” Law enforcement officials said Secret Service agents opened fire on the suspect near the golf course boundary, about 300 to 500 yards from Trump.
“In the bushes where this male was located was an AK-47 style rifle with a scope, two backpacks and a GoPro,” said Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw.
Trump himself issued the following statement shortly after the reading: “Before the rumors get out of hand, I want you to hear this first: I AM SAFE AND WELL!”
How is the safety in Massachusetts?
While the FBI investigates, law enforcement in Massachusetts is likely on high alert, experts said.
“The governor, the mayor of Boston and several other people in the Boston area have protective details,” said former Boston Police Chief Ed Davis. “Everybody is talking about this right now and everybody is coordinating their resources to make sure they’re prepared.”
But as the November election approaches, Davis says incidents like this are prompting increased security measures across the state.
“From now until November, security measures are going to be more stringent and I think that’s necessary at this point to preserve our democracy,” Davis said.
Massachusetts lawmakers respond
Senator Elizabeth Warren released a statement on Sunday saying, “I am grateful that former President Trump was not injured in an apparent assassination attempt on his golf course. Politics is never okay. Ever.”
Senator Ed Markey also posted a statement on social media, saying, “I am grateful for the essential work of the Secret Service in maintaining the safety of former President Trump and condemn all forms of political violence.”
“Political violence of any kind has no place in America and must be unequivocally condemned,” Rep. Lori Trahan said in a statement on her social media.
