(The Center Square) – No one is changing the security plan for Milwaukee’s Republican National Convention.
Host Committee boss Reince Priebus told News Talk 1130 WISN’s Jay Weber Monday morning that he spoke with former President Donald Trump after Saturday’s assassination attempt in Pennsylvania and asked if he wanted changes for the Milwaukee convention.
“He said ‘no, no, no. We’re not going to start changing and cutting back the plans for the fun. I do not want that at all,” Priebus said. “In fact, he flew here [Sunday] a day early. He came to Milwaukee and wanted to show people that he was fine and he’s moving forward.”
Priebus said Milwaukee is likely the most secure city in America right now. There are more than 10,000 police officers and other members of law enforcement in the city.
The Secret Service also says there will be no changes in convention security. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle said in a statement Monday morning she is “confident” in the security plan for the convention.
“The security plans for National Special Security Events are designed to be flexible. As the conventions progress, and in accordance with the direction of the president, the Secret Service will continuously adapt our operations as necessary in order to ensure the highest level of safety and security,” Cheatle said. “We have also implemented changes to his security detail since Saturday to ensure his continued protection for the convention and the remainder of the campaign.”
Priebus said he has some concerns about the planned Monday midday march to the RNC. But he also recognizes the constitutional right to protest.
“Obviously there are a lot of legal issues involved in free speech, and there is a way to secure that activity,” Priebus said of the march. “Obviously no one’s going to be just freewheeling through the streets in Milwaukee.”
That march will come close to the RNC. A federal judge earlier this month said the protesters will not be allowed inside the hard security zone that includes Fiserv Forum, where the convention activities will take place.
