Trump left succession instructions for Vance in event of assassination: White House official

White House counterterrorism chief Sebastian Gorka says President Donald Trump has left written instructions for Vice President JD Vance in the event he is assassinated during his second term.

The official made the remarks to New York Post, which published them on Wednesday.

Speaking on the outlet's "Pod Force One" podcast, Gorka said protocols were in place to ensure continuity of government if the president was killed.

"There is a letter in the drawer in the Resolute Desk that is addressed to the vice president should something happen to him," Gorka said.

"We have protocols, trust me. Not ones I can discuss, but we have protocols."

In July 2024, gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, wounding Trump in the ear before being killed by snipers.

Trump injured during shooting incident being investigated as ‘assassination attempt’

Former US president and current presidential candidate, Donald Trump is injured during a shooting incident happening at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Another suspect, Ryan Routh, was arrested near Trump’s Florida golf course after allegedly preparing an attack.

The latest alleged assassination attempt occurred on April 25 during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, when suspect Cole Allen was subdued by Secret Service agents before reaching the ballroom floor.

Allen has pleaded not guilty to federal charges including attempted assassination of the president.

New York Post's report came as Trump's popularity has dropped to a record low amid nationwide outrage over his volatile policies, including his aggressive attitude towards even Washington's allies, which has, in turn, contributed to widespread international outcry.

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