A suspected drunk driver narrowly missed Vice President Kamala Harris’s motorcade in Milwaukee on Monday evening.
The BBC reported that the driver, identified as a 55-year-old man, was traveling in the wrong direction on Interstate 94 before being arrested for driving under the influence.
The incident unfolded shortly before 8:30 p.m. local time on Monday, according to the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office.
The man was heading westbound on the eastbound lanes of the highway, dangerously approaching the motorcade carrying Vice President Harris.
Deputies quickly intervened to halt the suspected drunk driver before any contact with the motorcade occurred. The man was found in possession of an open can of beer when officers stopped him, further raising concerns of impaired driving.
The individual, reportedly in shock when informed of his near-collision with the motorcade, claimed he could not recall entering the freeway. Furthermore, he insisted he harbored no desire to harm the vice president or anyone linked to her campaign.
Vice President Harris was in Wisconsin attending a campaign event alongside former Republican lawmaker Liz Cheney.
In the immediate aftermath, the U.S. Secret Service acknowledged the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office's prompt and effective response. Their actions ensured the driver was taken into custody without any harm befalling Vice President Harris or her entourage.
This incident has resurfaced concerns around the safety of political figures on the campaign trail. Just last month, another safety concern arose when vehicles traveling with Harris's running mate, Tim Walz, were involved in an accident in Milwaukee.
The September event led to some media personnel traveling in the Walz motorcade suffering injuries. An accidental rear-end collision pushed their vehicle into the one ahead, resulting in reporters being violently jolted forward.
As the November 5 election nears, security forces, including the Secret Service, are grappling with a "heightened threat environment," according to acting director Ronald Rowe. This period of elevated risk underscores the importance of maintaining vigilant security measures for political figures on the move.
The Secret Service, tasked with the protection of various political figures, is acutely aware of the increased threats.
The agency is closely coordinating with local law enforcement across the nation to safeguard those under its protection.
In light of the recent incidents, additional precautions are being considered to ensure the safety of Vice President Harris and her campaign team as they continue their tour.
While the investigation into both incidents is ongoing, authorities are advising the public, especially drivers, to be extra mindful when navigating traffic around convoy routes. The actions of a single individual can ripple into potential tragedies, emphasizing the communal responsibility for road safety.
There is also an appeal to the public to report any suspicious or dangerous behavior by motorists to the relevant authorities. This proactive approach can serve as a deterrent to prevent further occurrences.
