Beyond the Badge: The Critical Need for Enhanced Security and Access Control at Public Events

In today's world, large-scale events — whether political rallies, public forums, concerts, sporting events, or conventions — draw significant crowds and, with them, serious security concerns. Unfortunately, access control is often under-prioritized, leading to preventable risks. Effective security planning should commence with rigorous access control, secure perimeter monitoring, and real-time threat assessment. These aren't just best practices — they're essential for ensuring public safety. When access points are left unchecked or credentials are not strictly enforced, it creates opportunities for individuals with malicious intent to exploit vulnerabilities. 

This concern became painfully evident in 2024 & 2025 as the political climate & enhanced hate rhetoric flooded the United States' news cycles. During a recent high-profile campaign rally, an assassination attempt occurred, with the shooter managing to access a nearby rooftop. This incident resulted in multiple casualties and raised serious questions about how such a breach could happen at an event of significant prominence. Additionally, various public events have faced disruptions, including threats that revealed flaws in venue security and access protocols, underscoring the urgent need for improved safety measures.

These incidents, although politically charged in nature, highlight a larger, nonpartisan issue: insufficient investment in modern, standardized access control practices puts everyone at risk — not just public figures. 

Moving forward, the emphasis must be on universal safety standards, not political sides. The implementation and planning of compliant and secure access control have never been more paramount as the first line of defense. Whether it's a campaign rally, tech expo, or music festival, event organizers must implement stringent accreditation processes, surveillance integration, and layered access control zones. Public safety relies on taking these precautions seriously — before a crisis occurs. With today's technology and planning capabilities, comprehensive security is achievable. The real challenge is ensuring it's treated as a priority. Without that commitment, the safety of attendees, staff, and speakers alike remains unnecessarily at risk. At the end of the day, security matters for everyone, and the safety of all should be the focus in event security.