The second assassination attempt on former President Trump is the latest event to add to an already unprecedented election cycle.
Former FBI Agent Dr. Jerry Clark explained, "We have a very important election coming up so that has a heighten situation going on, but it definitely has law enforcement at a challenge right now."
Erie Police Chief Dan Spizarny said this most recent incident makes law enforcement's jobs more challenging not only to protect elected officials, but citizens too. "We also have the responsibility to the citizens, what we saw in Butler, innocent lives that were taken to have to make sure we are protecting our citizens as much as the VIP", said Spizarny.
Although the locations of both assassination attempts couldn't be more different, Spizarny said the same protection is needed, "Whether it's a large event or small gathering, you just have to be very cognizant of your surroundings, be prepared to react at a fraction of a second."
Going forward, Dr. Clark thinks more security is needed for all candidates, "The candidates running on both sides, I think we need protection all the way around just due to this really heightened level of angst we have in our political process."
But he said this level of protection is needed at all times and not just when they are on the campaign trail. "These are humans and they are doing regular, daily activity and you want to think you can do those safely, whether it's biking or golfing", said Dr. Clark.
No matter the day or time, Dr. Clark said safety is the top priority. "It's just constant vigilance, situational awareness, watching around you, having people tell you things. It's of utmost importance."
Dr. Clark also said that moving forward more work needs to be done to get these people early by monitoring what they are posting and sharing on social media.