Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is set to receive Secret Service protection following the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a rally over the weekend. This decision was announced by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on Monday.
During a Trump rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, a gunman opened fire, injuring Trump and fatally wounding a rally attendee. In light of these events, President Joe Biden directed Mayorkas to provide Secret Service protection for Kennedy.
Kennedy has repeatedly requested Secret Service protection since announcing his presidential run, but his appeals were previously denied. The recent violent incident at Trump’s rally has now prompted a reassessment.
“We are in a heightened and very dynamic threat environment,” Mayorkas said during a White House press briefing. “The United States’ Secret Service, along with the FBI and other federal partners, takes these threats seriously and adjusts security measures as needed. Maintaining the safety of the president and former president at campaign events is one of our most vital 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 highlighted that Trump’s security will be increased as he becomes the nominee at the Republican National Convention in Wisconsin this week.
Despite Kennedy’s earlier requests for protection being rejected, citing that it was “not warranted,” the recent attack has intensified calls for his security detail. This change comes after Trump himself emphasized the necessity for Kennedy to receive protection.
“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 just hours before Mayorkas’ announcement.
With this new directive, Kennedy will now receive the security detail he has long sought, ensuring his safety as he continues his campaign for the presidency.
