Golf courses, and in particular former President Donald Trump’s own properties, have raised concerns among Secret Service officials tasked with securing the grounds while the commander in chief plays. The security around Trump was heightened following an attempt on his life, but a recent incident saw a would-be assassin armed with an AK-47 coming within 500 yards of the former president.
Securing a perimeter around the former president at a golf course poses challenges. The vast outdoor areas, design elements like trees and hills, and proximity to public roads make it difficult for the Secret Service to ensure complete security.
During Trump's golf outings, the club remains open to the public, and roads nearby are not closed. Secret Service agents in golf attire ride in golf carts ahead and behind the former president, securing areas before his arrival. Trump, like his predecessors, enjoys driving his own golf cart, which lacks special protective measures but bears a presidential seal.
Agents sometimes use metal detecting wands to screen players and guests before they approach Trump. Efforts have been made to restrict access to Trump while at his clubs, but he enjoys socializing with members.
Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach is situated near heavily trafficked roads and the Palm Beach International Airport. Security concerns were acknowledged by the Palm Beach County sheriff, who mentioned that security measures are limited since Trump is no longer the sitting president.
When Barack Obama was president, his golf outings were at Joint Base Andrews, which had restricted access due to its military installation location. President Joe Biden rarely golfs.
