The University of Alabama said security will be increased Saturday for the sold-out Alabama-Georgia football game former president and current GOP nominee Donald Trump is planning to attend.
In a statement, the university said the safety of the campus is its top priority and the University of Alabama Police Department is working with U.S. Security Service and other law enforcement.
The game between No. 4 Alabama and No. 2 Georgia starts at 6:30 p.m., but people are advised to arrive by 5 p.m.
Like for every UA football game, walk-through metal detectors will be in place and the clear bag policy will be strictly enforced, the university said.
“Additional safety measures will be enacted in collaboration with local and federal agencies, so fans are encouraged to arrive early to expedite the security screening process,” the statement said.
Trump will attend with U.S. Sen. Katie Britt, R-Alabama, and her husband.
“Wesley and I are excited to host President Trump and Sen. Steve Daines (R-Montana) in Tuscaloosa this Saturday,” Britt said in a statement to Alabama Daily News. “It should be a tremendous game against Georgia, and we know Alabama will give President Trump a warm welcome once again. Roll Tide!”
Security surrounding Trump has been increased following two assassination attempts in July and earlier this month.
U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville said he plans to split his Saturday between the Auburn and Alabama games. He’ll visit Trump at the later.
“There will be a lot of people who want to shake his hand and that’s what he loves to do, he loves people…” Tuberville said. “He wants to show that these people who are out to get him aren’t going to keep him inside, not going to keep him in the basement. He’s going to be out, he’s going to be visible.”
Trump isn’t a stranger to Bryant-Denny Stadium. He was president running for reelection when he attended the Alabama-LSU game in 2019.