Kathrine Frich
After repeated threats to his life, you might expect Donald Trump to embrace every possible safety measure.
But when it comes to one key piece of protection, the president appears reluctant.
His concern? How it might make him look.
Safety concerns
During a press briefing on April 30, Trump was asked whether he would consider wearing a bulletproof vest following a recent attack, according to LADbible.
The question came after a Secret Service agent was shot at close range but survived thanks to protective gear.
Trump, however, dismissed the idea, citing concerns about how it would affect his appearance.
“I don’t know if I can handle looking 20 pounds heavier.”
Appearance worries
The president continued by joking about the weight such equipment might add.
“If you want to gain 20 to 25 pounds, get a West vest,”
Despite his reluctance, Trump acknowledged the effectiveness of the vest in the recent incident.
Referring to the injured agent, he said the protective gear likely prevented a more serious outcome.
“Frankly, the vest did an amazing job because it took a bullet close up,” Trump said on Thursday. “And he didn’t even want to go to the hospital. We sent him to the hospital.”
He also compared the impact of being shot while wearing a vest to a heavy physical blow, likening it to “getting hit by Mike Tyson”.
Multiple attempts
The comments come after several attempts on Trump’s life in recent years.
The latest incident occurred on April 25, when a suspect opened fire at a security checkpoint during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
The attacker, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, has been charged with attempted assassination and other offenses.
Earlier attempts include a shooting at a campaign rally in July 2024, where Trump was grazed by a bullet.
Another suspect was arrested in September 2024 after allegedly targeting Trump at his Florida golf club.
Reflecting on the threats, Trump appeared unfazed.
“They don’t go after the ones that don’t do much.”
