Richard Staropoli, a former Secret Service agent, has issued a dire warning about the agency’s readiness to protect President-elect Donald Trump. Following a near-miss assassination attempt in July, Staropoli has criticized the Secret Service for what he sees as declining effectiveness.
“This whole talk about all these drones and these UAVs, hey, that’s all great, but you need to get back to the basics,” Staropoli said. He emphasized the importance of human intelligence and effective on-the-ground security measures, suggesting the agency has strayed from these principles.
Staropoli warned of the potential for a more significant attack before inauguration day, stating, “It’s not going to be some 20-year-old kid on the roof of a building.” He believes the Secret Service may not be adequately prepared for large-scale threats involving advanced weaponry or coordinated efforts.
The risks extend beyond lone actors, as Staropoli pointed to the possibility of state-sponsored operations. Groups with access to significant resources could exploit vulnerabilities, such as those exposed by the July incident. He argued that such threats require the agency to adopt a proactive and comprehensive approach to security.
National security challenges, including open border policies, exacerbate these concerns. Staropoli highlighted the potential for dangerous materials to be smuggled into the U.S., posing additional risks to high-profile officials. Critics argue that these systemic issues demand urgent attention.
Staropoli’s remarks serve as a wake-up call for the Secret Service. As threats evolve, the agency must adapt its strategies to ensure the safety of the president-elect and other senior officials. His warning emphasizes the importance of readiness in an increasingly unpredictable security environment.
