Trump-affiliated golf courses have consistently posed challenges for the Secret Service in carrying out their duties.
A presidential visit to a golf course usually takes place in the largest open outdoor area, and due to their layout, featuring public roads and features like trees and hills that provide potential cover for would-be assailants, they are particularly challenging for security agencies to manage.
Just like previous leaders, Trump's presence on the golf course does not result in the closure of the club to the public or nearby road shutdowns. Instead, teams of agents in golf attire travel in golf carts ahead and behind Trump as he plays, securing areas for several minutes prior to his arrival.
Trump National Golf Club, located in West Palm Beach, is situated near three heavily congested roads: Kirk Road, Summit Boulevard, and Congress Avenue. Palm Beach International Airport is in close proximity.
As president, Trump could frequently be observed from Kirk Road while playing golf. However, media personnel were not granted permission to be present on the sidewalks adjacent to the golf course during Trump's games.
Upon leaving office, some restrictions were eased. The general public was granted unobstructed views of Trump from the sidewalks on Summit Boulevard and Congress Avenue.
In a press conference on Sunday, Palm Beach County sheriff acknowledged certain security concerns.
"Given his current status, he is not the current president. Consequently, our security measures are limited to the areas deemed viable by the Secret Service," Sheriff Ric Bradshaw expressed. He further added, "I anticipate that there may be a larger crowd present when Trump returns to the golf course next time."
During Barack Obama's tenure as president, his preferred golf location was the links located at Joint Base Andrews. The military installation's nature offered restricted access to both the golf course and its surroundings.
President Joe Biden rarely engages in golfing.
Despite being out of office, Trump's golf outings at Trump National Golf Club continue to spark interest in politics, with people often gathering near the heavily trafficked roads to catch a glimpse.
The shift in security measures after Trump's presidency allows for a more open political spectacle, as the general public can now observe his golf rounds from locations like Summit Boulevard and Congress Avenue.
