Trump asks for military aircraft protection, citing Iran threat

Donald Trump’s campaign has requested the use of military aircraft and vehicles to protect the former president as he campaigns during the final weeks of the presidential campaign, the New York Times and Washington Post report.

The request follows two recent assassination attempts against the Republican presidential candidate. It also comes after Trump’s campaign last month said he had been briefed by US intelligence officials on alleged threats from Iran to assassinate him.

A representative for the US Secret Service, which is charged with protecting presidential candidates, says “the former president is receiving the highest levels of protection” but confirms the Trump campaign had requested more.

“The Secret Service will remain vigilant and continue to adjust and enhance its protective posture as needed to mitigate evolving threats,” the representative says.

US President Joe Biden, speaking to reporters, says he has authorized security to protect Trump as if he were a sitting president, and if Trump’s request falls in that category it should be granted.

Representatives for Trump’s campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

According to the New York Times, Trump’s campaign has been in contact with White House chief of staff Jeff Zients and acting Secret Service Ronald Rowe asking for military assets to protect the Republican candidate, who is facing US Vice President Kamala Harris in the Nov. 5 presidential election.