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Trump’s top officials retreat behind military gates as ex-FBI deputy points to what’s fueling threats
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has moved to a military base amid security concerns, joining other senior Trump administration officials who have relocated behind military gates. The moves reflect concern over reported threats against officials, including alleged Iranian assassination plots, and a wider rise in threats to public figures.
A source familiar with Bessent’s situation said security concerns increased after a newspaper article included a photo that enabled his Georgetown home to be located online; an official said threats against him had advanced significantly. Attorney General Todd Blanche also reportedly moved to a military base. Secret Service Director Sean Curran said threats against full-time protectees rose by more than 40% year on year, with roughly 10,000 cases recorded in 2026 at the time; former FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said agencies weigh communications, online activity and intelligence when assessing risk.
In short
- Scott Bessent has relocated to a military base over security concerns.
- Attorney General Todd Blanche has reportedly done the same.
- The Secret Service recorded about 10,000 threat cases in 2026.
Explained simply
US officials who receive full-time protection include senior figures such as the Treasury secretary and attorney general. Their security is handled by agencies including the Secret Service, which assesses possible risks using information from communications, online activity and intelligence.
Threats to public figures can range from hostile messages to plans for physical attacks. US authorities have also reported concerns about alleged Iranian plots targeting officials, while a published photograph that helped people locate Scott Bessent’s home illustrates how personal information can affect security.
The number of threats reported against protected officials has risen, adding to the demands on security agencies. Relocating officials to military bases is one way to limit access to their homes and reduce exposure to potential dangers.