
Following the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a recent rally, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a presidential candidate, will now receive Secret Service protection. The announcement was made by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on Monday.
On Saturday, a gunman opened fire at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania, injuring Trump and killing a rally attendee. Due to these alarming events, President Joe Biden directed Mayorkas to ensure Kennedy’s safety by providing him with Secret Service protection.
Kennedy had previously requested Secret Service protection multiple times since declaring his candidacy, but these requests were denied. The recent attack on Trump has led to a reassessment and a new directive.
“We are in a heightened and very dynamic threat environment. The United States’ Secret Service, in collaboration with the FBI and other federal partners, takes these threats very seriously and adjusts security measures accordingly,” Mayorkas stated during a White House press briefing. “Ensuring the safety and security of the president, the former president, and their campaign events is one of our top priorities. In light of the weekend’s events, the president has directed me to work with the Secret Service to provide protection for Robert Kennedy Jr.”
Mayorkas also assured that Trump’s security would be increased as he becomes the nominee at the Republican National Convention in Wisconsin this week.
Kennedy’s earlier requests for protection were previously deemed “not warranted.” However, the recent assassination attempt on Trump has led to intensified calls for Kennedy’s security detail, highlighting the current threat environment.
“In light of what is going on in the world today, I believe that it is imperative that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. receive Secret Service protection — immediately,” Trump posted on Truth Social on Monday, just hours before Mayorkas’ announcement.
With the new directive, Kennedy will now receive the protection he has long requested, ensuring his safety as he continues his presidential campaign amidst a tense political climate.