President Donald Trump held a campaign rally at Pittsburgh International Airport on September 22nd, 2020. The Secret Service has recently advised the Trump campaign to discontinue holding large outdoor rallies following the failure to secure the former president’s July 13th rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where four people were injured and one person died as a result of inadequate security measures.
The recommendation comes after Secret Service Director Kimberley Cheatle resigned, facing backlash from members of both major political parties during her Monday hearing on Capitol Hill. The incident exposed the agency’s incompetence and put Trump at risk of a near-assassination attempt.
Outdoor rallies have been an essential aspect of Trump’s campaign culture, with supporters transforming these events into daylong festivities complete with tailgate barbecues, merchants selling Trump-themed gear, and vehicles adorned in honor of the former president. Thousands who cannot attend the rally itself still gather nearby to partake in the celebratory atmosphere. These rallies not only showcase the enthusiasm of Trump’s supporters but also serve as powerful campaign advertisements.
In light of this advice from the Secret Service, the Trump campaign is now considering indoor venues for future events. While no large outdoor rallies are planned at present, a source tells Axios that it doesn’t necessarily mean Trump will completely abandon outdoor events. Nonetheless, moving to indoor locations would have financial repercussions, as renting a major indoor arena can be more expensive than securing an outdoor venue like the Butler Farm Show grounds.
Smaller venues may offer a cheaper alternative; however, they often accommodate fewer supporters, limiting attendance. Trump’s upcoming events include the 9,600-seat Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte and the 6,000-seat Herb Brooks National Hockey Center in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Although these venues may not have the same visual impact as a sprawling outdoor rally, they will still provide an opportunity for Trump’s campaign to showcase its support and demonstrate the former president’s popularity.