Secret Service Chief Admits Trump Used More Decoy Planes
Secret Service Director Sean Curran said the agency has used decoy planes before. He was discussing Trump's covert aircraft switch after a July NATO summit in Turkey.
- Trump moved to a smaller Air Force C-32A inside an airport catering truck.
- The Boeing 747 flew as a decoy carrying reporters and some White House staff.
- The Washington Post reported in August that the move followed an Iranian assassination threat.
- Rubio and Bessent flew on the 747 to preserve the line of succession.
Why it matters: Curran said, "We wish that wasn't reported, 'cause that takes some of our tactics away from being able to do something similar again." The agency called the disclosure unfortunate in a statement to NewsNation.
- White House officials had said Trump departed on the former Air Force One.
- Trump told reporters the decision belonged to the Secret Service and the military.
How 5 sources split on this story
Where they split: Coverage divides on emphasis: whether the story is the agency's frustration over the leak or the revelation that decoys are routine.
Center coverage, 1 sources: The center frames the story around Curran's irritation that the decoy tactic became public.
Right coverage, 3 sources: The right frames Curran's remarks as a revelation that decoy flights are an established protective practice.
What’s next: CBS News airs the full Curran interview Sunday on 60 Minutes. Deputy Director Matthew Quinn joins him.
- The agency said it will keep adapting its methods to changing threats.
- How often has the Secret Service used decoy aircraft, and for which trips?
- Why did the White House maintain Trump flew on the larger plane after the switch?
