Once, their purpose was to add a layer of security when communicating over insecure technology. However, today they play a more ceremonial, logistical role.
A Secret Service spokesperson once told The Washington Post that the names shouldn't be scrutinised too closely as they are collated on "sheer whim" by the White House for a candidate to pick from.
Now, JD Vance has been given a secret codename of his own after he was announced as Trump's running mate for his 2024 presidential campaign on 15 July - just two days after the former president was almost assassinated.
According to the Daily Mail, the Ohio senator has been known to the agents protecting him as "Bobcat."
This story is from the July 27, 2024 edition of The Independent.
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This story is from the July 27, 2024 edition of The Independent.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
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