Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that he is withdrawing Secret Service protection for Hunter Biden, extending his campaign of political retaliation to President Joe Biden’s son.
Trump also revealed that he would be ending the security detail for Ashley Biden, the former president’s daughter.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump criticized the number of agents assigned to protect Hunter Biden, claiming that it amounted to as many as 18 people, which he described as “ridiculous.” Trump noted that Hunter Biden was currently on vacation in South Africa and mentioned that he had recently suspended U.S. aid to the country due to alleged human rights violations.
“Effective immediately, Hunter Biden will no longer receive Secret Service protection. Likewise, Ashley Biden, who has 13 agents, will be taken off the list,” Trump wrote.
While federal law mandates Secret Service protection for former presidents and their spouses, it only extends to their children under the age of 16. However, it is common for adult children to continue receiving protection for a period of time.
In response to Trump’s decision, a Secret Service spokesperson told AFP, “We are aware of the President’s decision to terminate protection for Hunter and Ashley Biden.” The spokesperson added, “The Secret Service will comply and is actively working with the protective details and the White House to ensure compliance as soon as possible.”
Hunter Biden has been a frequent target of Republican criticism, particularly after his father granted him pardons for his gun and tax offenses just before leaving office in January.
