MILWAUKEE — Heightened focus and security are the talk of the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee following an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.
Texas law enforcement is part of the heightened security at the RNC, including some officers from the Austin Police Department (APD).
APD officials said the department has sent officers to similar events in the past to assist with security and enforcement when requested.
Gov. Greg Abbott said a total of 27 APD personnel are in Milwaukee to assist with security. They join 13 personnel from the Dallas Police Department, 46 personnel from the Fort Worth Police Department and 19 personnel from the McAllen Police Department.
"As the nation continues to process the assassination attempt on President Donald Trump and grieve the tragic loss of innocent life, now more than ever, it is critical that we stand together to protect our fellow Americans against those who wish us harm," Abbott said Tuesday. "Texas has deployed law enforcement personnel to the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee to ensure there are ample security resources present to safeguard attendees. I thank the over 100 members of law enforcement who are dedicating a week of service to their fellow Americans in Wisconsin. Texas will always step up to ensure law and order and protect Americans."
Abbott said Texas stands ready to support the Democratic National Convention in August if requested.
The officers began their seven-day deployment on July 13 and are scheduled to return on July 19. Mission-related costs are expected to be reimbursed by officials in Wisconsin.
Protesters rally at GOP convention
Hundreds of demonstrators converged in downtown Milwaukee to protest around the RNC, saying the assassination attempt on Trump wouldn't affect their plans to rally.
According to the Associated Press, a group of demonstrators argued with counter-protesters as police looked on. They also marched within a block of Fiserv Forum, on the edge of the arena's security zone.
The parade appeared to go on without incident as Milwaukee police estimated a crowd of 700 to 800 people.
Secret Service ordered to protect RFK Jr.
President Joe Biden directed the U.S. Secret Service to protect independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. after the attempted assassination of Trump.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said President Biden had directed the protection for Kennedy “both prior to and after the events of this past weekend."
Former President Trump also used social media to call for Kennedy Jr.'s protection saying, "It is imperative … Given the history of the Kennedy family."
The Secret Service is legally required to protect major party presidential and vice presidential candidates and their families 120 days out from a general election, but third-party candidates are on an as-needed basis.
The Department of Homeland Security acknowledged in its 2024 budget overview that recent requests for candidate protection were coming in earlier than in the past.