Trump's Speech at Bitcoin Event Delayed by Security Issue

Former President Donald Trump’s appearance at the annual Bitcoin conference in Nashville was marred by a one-hour delay due to the removal of two credentialed individuals for not adhering to entry protocols, according to the United States Secret Service. The agency clarified that there was no protective concern regarding these individuals and confirmed that there was never a threat to Trump. Speculation among attendees suggested the delay was linked to Trump’s readiness or the potential appearance of a special guest, but he ultimately took the stage alone without any security issues being communicated to the audience. The heightened security measures at the event included a ban on bags and multiple screenings, including the use of magnetometers. This conference occurred just two weeks after a serious assassination attempt on Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, which has raised significant concerns about the Secret Service's preparedness. Reports indicated that Trump and his campaign were not informed about a search for a suspicious individual present at the event, who was later identified as Thomas Matthews Crooks, the would-be assassin. The Secret Service's handling of the situation has drawn bipartisan criticism, leading to the resignation of USSS Director Kimberly Cheatle. In light of these events, Acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe is scheduled to testify before a Senate panel on Tuesday, where he will address the agency's security protocols and measures in response to the recent assassination attempt. The scrutiny on the Secret Service underscores the ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety of high-profile figures.