Trump Campaign Sends Letters to Secret Service Regarding ‘Critical Flaw’ in Milwaukee Convention Plan

I have been writing about the huge security problems faced by Republican delegates at the National Convention. Due to the possibility that the boundaries of the “security zone” may not include a park located less than one-quarter mile away from the Fiserv forum, where the National Convention is being held.

The National Committee of Republicans, along with members of Congress have requested that the Secret Service move the security zone away from Pere Marquette Park and to an area where there will thousands of protesters. It appears now that delegates will not be able walk from their hotel to the convention.

ABC News reported “right now, pedestrians must walk through Pere Marquette that is owned and run by the city in order to reach the facilities.” A person who is familiar with the security plans stated that Pere Marquette acts as a gathering area and attendees’ safety may be at risk if not secured.

The Trump Campaign also sent a request to the Secret Service, requesting that a “cushion area” of one block between Fiserv Forum and the designated free speech area be created.

RNC general counsel Todd Steggerda claimed the Secret Service ignored Republican concerns despite numerous outreach efforts.

Steggerda wrote Steggerda: “The USSS local team, that I had contacted April 26th, has not responded to my rational proposal to reduce the safety risks by expanding the Security Perimeter eastward, enclosing Park. ”

Anthony Guglielmi, an ABC News reporter, said that “demonstration zones for the convention were not designated by Secret Service, but the host city.” ”

He stated that the agency was in constant communication with Republican National Committee chairman Michael Whatley, RNC staff in Milwaukee and U.S. Senate members regarding the security plan of this convention. He added, “We take the security planning of such events very serious.”

Guglielmi said that the model is designed to offer the highest level of security while having the least impact on public.

Security at the Democrats’ Chicago Convention is different. First Amendment Zone is located more than three miles from the United Center where the convention will take place.

I’d love to compare Chicago with Milwaukee using “metrics”.

The Secret Service spokesperson criticised Republicans for leaking’security information’

Guglielmi stated that the release of security information, as described in this letter, undermines the ability to maintain the integrity and security of our security plan. This includes the attendees at the convention and the general public.

According the letter, the adjustment will create an balance between security and safety for public. By moving the perimeter, attendees and journalists will walk in safety and be treated with dignity. One of these rights is the right to peaceful demonstrations and assemblies within sight and hearing of the convention. This proposed change confirms that this will happen.

The RNC’s request is made at a moment when political protests have increased across the country, many of them on college campuses. Several of these protests led to arrests.

Perhaps protesters won’t bother conventiongoers. Everyone is going to have a good time and be safe. Perhaps.

Then again, perhaps not.