Former President Donald Trump's remarks at the annual Bitcoin conference were delayed for about an hour on Saturday due to two individuals being removed from the premises by the United States Secret Service for not following proper entry protocols. The Secret Service confirmed that the individuals were credentialed and posed no threat to the former president.
Despite speculation that the delay was caused by Trump not being ready or the potential appearance of a special guest, he eventually took the stage alone without any indication of a security issue relayed to the crowd.
Attendees at the conference in Nashville were subject to stringent security measures, including multiple screenings and the prohibition of bags inside the venue. The security protocols included the use of magnetometers to ensure the safety of all participants.
This event comes in the aftermath of an assassination attempt on Trump's life in Butler, Pennsylvania, which raised concerns about the Secret Service's preparedness. The incident led to bipartisan criticism of the agency and the subsequent resignation of USSS Director Kimberly Cheatle.
Acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe is scheduled to testify before a Senate panel on Tuesday to address the agency's plans for enhancing security measures following the assassination attempt.
