Michael Matranga, a former Secret Service agent, shares insider details on the agency's protective work, especially in light of recent assassination attempts on political figures. He discusses the lack of perimeter searches and highlights discrepancies in security for candidates versus sitting presidents. Florida Rep. Jared Moskowitz emphasizes the urgent need for reform, focusing on increased funding and better communication within the agency. Together, they unveil the pressing questions Congress faces regarding the Secret Service's effectiveness and the ongoing political climate.
There is a bipartisan agreement in Congress for significant changes within the Secret Service to address security lapses after recent assassination attempts.
Former agents highlighted the crucial differences in protection measures for presidential candidates compared to sitting presidents, emphasizing a need for improved threat assessment.
Deep dives
New Parental Controls for Social Media
Instagram is implementing tighter parental controls aimed at addressing the issue of screen addiction among tweens and teens. These measures come after years of regulatory pressure and are designed to help parents monitor their children's online activity. The discussion touches on the nostalgia for dial-up internet, humorously suggesting that if the internet were slower, children would find more offline activities to engage in. This change reflects a growing concern over the impact of social media on younger users and highlights the need for responsible digital consumption.
Secret Service Protocols Under Scrutiny
In light of recent assassination attempts on Donald Trump, there is a bipartisan consensus that substantial changes are needed within the Secret Service. Former agents discuss how the protection protocols for presidential candidates differ significantly from those for sitting presidents, with a stronger emphasis on the candidate's perceived threats. The Secret Service is evaluating its recent security lapses and has acknowledged the need for better plans and communication, particularly in high-stakes situations. Lawmakers are actively seeking clarification on how resources are allocated and the efficacy of current security measures.
Congress Challenges Secret Service Adequacy
Congressman Jared Moskowitz expresses concerns over the Secret Service's effectiveness following two assassination attempts within weeks. He calls for a reassessment of security levels, suggesting that current measures are inadequate given the rising threats. Moskowitz emphasizes the need for improved communication from the Secret Service about protocols and the results of ongoing investigations to instill public confidence. As discussions around funding and support for the Secret Service evolve, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of high-profile political figures leading up to the upcoming election.
Questions continue to mount around the Secret Service two days after a second assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. On Monday, the interim director of the service admitted that agents did not search the perimeter of Trump’s West Palm Beach golf course, where the alleged gunman waited for 12 hours before he was spotted. Former Secret Service agent Michael Matranga talks about the work the agency does to protect people like Trump. Later in the show, Florida Democratic Rep. Jared Moskowitz, who sits on the bipartisan panel investigating the first assassination attempt against Trump, talks about Congress’ plans to investigate the latest incident.
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