President Biden has reversed his previous stance and agreed to authorize Secret Service protection for independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., following the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas announced this decision during a White House press briefing, emphasizing that it was prompted by the events over the weekend where Trump narrowly escaped harm.
“In light of the events we’ve witnessed, the president has instructed me to collaborate with the Secret Service to ensure Robert Kennedy Jr. receives protection,” Mayorkas stated.
Trump had earlier advocated for Kennedy Jr. to receive Secret Service protection, citing the historical vulnerability of the Kennedy family to political violence. His call came shortly after he himself was targeted by a sniper’s bullet during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Kennedy Jr., whose family has tragically experienced political assassinations, had previously sought Secret Service protection, which had been denied by the Biden administration despite assessments indicating potential risks. This decision has sparked bipartisan support, with lawmakers and public figures urging for enhanced security measures to safeguard political candidates amidst heightened tensions.
