Karoline Leavitt to Receive Secret Service Protection Following Charlie Kirk’s Fatal Shooting: Report
The decision follows intensifying concerns about the rise of political violence in the United States, particularly during open-air gatherings and high-profile political events.
WASHINGTON, DC: White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt was recently briefed on receiving Secret Service protection after the tragic shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk on September 10 in Utah. According to CBS sources, the move comes in response to calls for “war” from some Republican leaders and the growing pressure to ensure the safety of public officials.
Kirk’s killing has sparked a nationwide debate over the vulnerability of political figures and activists, especially those participating in outdoor rallies and campaign-style events. Security experts warn that the increasing polarization and heated rhetoric could lead to further threats or attacks if stronger protective measures are not implemented.
In recent years, both Democratic and Republican figures have faced heightened risks at public appearances, prompting discussions in Washington about expanding security coverage beyond traditional roles. The decision to grant Leavitt protection highlights the seriousness of these concerns and may set a precedent for extending Secret Service details to other high-profile political voices.

Trump administration aims to increase funding for protecting executive and judicial branch members
Press secretaries are typically not granted a protective detail, and the increase in security is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to increase funding for the protection of executive and judicial branch members, including a $58 million proposal
Apart from the Charlie Kirk incident, many other instances of political violence have also occurred during President Donald Trump’s second term.
One of the main incidents was the slaying of a Minnesota state senator and her husband inside their home, and the attempted killing of another state senator and his wife.

On Thursday, September 18, Senator John Thune motioned for the Senate to amend its rules to allow senators to use congressional funds to “address security concerns they face as public officials”.
He added that Senate leadership was also working with Capitol Police to “to identify additional authorities for security options for senators”.
Thune also commended discussions on Capitol Hill to increase funding for lawmaker security.

The attention on increased political violence comes as the POTUS week blamed Kirk’s death on the “radical left” last week, before the suspect, Tyler Robinson, was in custody and before the identity of the 22-year-old was known.
Interestingly, many Republican lawmakers and Charlie Kirk’s wife, Erika, have also made calls for “war”, as they push for an end to politically-motivated violence.

