Rising political violence drives Trump administration officials to military shelters

Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) - International Service: The Atlantic Magazine reported that senior US government officials, including Secretary of War Pete Hexath and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have left their personal homes in Washington and moved to military bases outside the capital.

 

This action by members of US President Donald Trump's administration was taken following the assassination of American conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah in September and was aimed at increasing security.

 

In addition, recent protests near the homes of some officials involved in Trump's anti-immigration policies were among the other factors that caused them to leave their original homes and residences.

 

Stephen Miller, a senior Trump adviser who is considered one of the architects of his anti-immigration policies, falls into this category.

Miller’s wife recently told Fox News that protesters had staged a demonstration near their home. She said one protester had said in a threatening tone, “You’re being watched.”

 

The Atlantic reports that six senior U.S. officials currently live on military bases, using homes reserved for senior commanders.

 

Hexath and Rubio are staying in an area called “Generals’ Row” at a military base called Fort McNair outside Washington.

 

Homeland Security Secretary Christie Noam has moved to a Coast Guard commandant’s home at Joint Base Anacostia-Bowling, and Army Secretary Dan Driscoll has chosen Joint Base Meyer-Henderson Hall.

 

The Atlantic, citing a former official, reported that the high demand from members of Trump’s team has led to a shortage of housing space on military bases outside the capital. For example, Tulsi Gabbard, the director of national intelligence, applied for a residence at Fort McNair but was denied.

 

The New York Times also reported that some former residents of “Generals’ Row” have expressed dissatisfaction with the occupation of these houses by civilian officials.

 

“Military commanders need to be able to respond quickly to crises in emergencies... Part of the reason these houses are located near the base is because of that,” former Defense Secretary Leon Panetta told the newspaper.