Former President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he was ending the Secret Service protection for Hunter Biden and Ashley Biden, the adult children of President Joe Biden. This decision comes after Trump had previously extended their protection for six months following his departure from office in January.
Trump expressed his concerns on social media about the number of agents assigned to Hunter Biden, claiming there were 18 agents protecting him while he was in South Africa. He also mentioned that Ashley Biden had 13 agents assigned to her. Trump stated that both would be removed from the protection list.
The Secret Service confirmed they would comply with Trump’s order. They are coordinating with the Biden family and the White House to ensure the transition happens smoothly. Under federal law, former presidents and their spouses receive lifetime Secret Service protection. However, protection for their children ends when they turn 16, although outgoing presidents can extend that protection for up to six months.
Trump’s decision aligns with actions taken by previous presidents. Both Barack Obama and George W. Bush extended protection for their families after leaving office. As Trump made this announcement, he was asked about the possibility of revoking protection for his own son, to which he responded that he would consider it.
This move has sparked discussions about security protocols for the families of former presidents and the implications of such decisions. The Secret Service has a long-standing tradition of adapting to the needs of the families they protect, and this latest change is part of that ongoing process.