President Donald Trump rallied supporters in a Florida stronghold on Friday to highlight his efforts to protect Social Security and Medicaid, marking his first public appearance since facing another assassination attempt.
Prior to his trip to the Villages, one of the country’s largest retirement communities known to support Republican candidates, Trump was pressed on whether he felt safe attending a public event in the wake of the shooting.
“I don’t even think about it, Peter,” Trump said in response to the question posed by Fox News reporter Peter Doocey.
The day before, Trump was pressed on additional security measures, including the possibility of wearing a bulletproof vest. Trump said he didn’t know if he could “handle looking 20 pounds heavier” when asked whether he would consider it in the wake of the foiled attempt on his life at the Washington Hilton. The shooting during the White House Correspondents Association dinner marked the third assassination attempt in less than two years.
Meanwhile, security measures were heavily scrutinized during his trip to Florida.
Trump has touted it as the largest tax break in history for America’s seniors, ensuring seniors can save more of their money after years of earning their Social Security.
"That means more money to visit your grandkids, a bigger budget for taking a trip," Trump said during Friday's speech.
Rep. Greg Steube (R-Fla.) highlighted the significance of Trump's policies for the state.
Trump announced during his remarks that $13 billion dollars has been issued to 2.5 million seniors in the Sunshine State, thanks to the massive tax cuts.