GatorFL
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- Jan 1, 2009
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In the past couple of years I've been invited to private speaking events with both Mike Pompeo and John Bolton. Both had extensive security details. I have photos of myself with both of these men. We were given a small card with "the rules" at both events.I volunteered to drive a van for the news media in a VPOTUS motorcade once. We were very far back, probably 12 cars back from the main group. It was just a basic mini-van rented from the airport car rental. It was intense, fun and an amazing learning experience, watching everything the SS does in managing VPOTUS and other VIPs, plus the public and staff. Media that travels on these trips are experts and know how everything is done, too. There are a lot of rules about what you can and can't do, where you must go, etc. The amount of planning and people, LE, etc. involved is very extensive. Driving 10 miles from downtown to the airport, the interstate highway is completely empty, all exits are blocked by motorcycle police. Amazing how they do all that. So many things I learned that day. SS are very nice, professional people. Don't bother or talk to them while they're working, though.
Pompeo's security is all Department of State assets. They have their own internal service called the DSS. He was as well blanketed and as former President Trump when he was in town, including a motorcade which diverted traffic.
Bolton's security was all Secret Service. Smaller detail and no motorcade.
All of the agents were pleasant and professional.
During the small photo op both of them had at least 3 men nearby at arms length. I noticed they were all armed and wearing bullet proof vests.
I've also had similar events with other government officials, they also have security but more like a bodyguard. Except one former Senator, he's just comfortable going it alone.