By NIGPOST
In a controversial move, U.S. President Donald Trump has withdrawn Secret Service protection for Hunter Biden and Ashley Biden, the children of former President Joe Biden.
Trump announced the decision on his Truth Social platform on Tuesday, citing what he called excessive security costs.
Trump’s Justification for the Move
Trump claimed that Hunter Biden, who is reportedly vacationing in South Africa, had up to 18 Secret Service agents assigned to him, which he described as “ridiculous.”
He also pointed out that Ashley Biden had 13 agents protecting her.
“Effective immediately, Hunter Biden and Ashley Biden will no longer receive Secret Service protection,” Trump stated.
The move extends Trump’s pattern of targeting political opponents since returning to office in January.
A Pattern of Retaliation?
This decision follows other security revocations under Trump’s administration. Earlier, he had stripped former President Joe Biden and several of his officials of security clearances.
Notable figures like former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, ex-National Security Advisor John Bolton, and Dr. Anthony Fauci also lost their security privileges.
When asked about the decision, a Secret Service spokesperson confirmed:
“We are aware of the President’s decision and are working to comply as soon as possible.”
The Political Backdrop
Hunter Biden has been a frequent target of Republican criticism, especially after his father pardoned his tax and gun-related convictions before leaving office in January.
On Monday, Trump took things further by declaring those pardons void—an unprecedented move with unclear legal standing.
Can Trump Legally Revoke Their Protection?
By law, former presidents and their spouses are entitled to lifetime Secret Service protection. However, their children only qualify if they are under 16 years old.
In most cases, security details for adult children are extended temporarily after their parent leaves office.
Trump himself had extended Secret Service protection for his four adult children after his first term, costing taxpayers $1.7 million, according to reports.
Reactions and Implications
The White House has defended Trump’s decisions, stating that security details are not lifetime entitlements.
“The individuals in question are quite wealthy and can afford private security if they wish,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said.
Critics argue that Trump’s actions are politically motivated and serve as payback against his opponents. His supporters, however, see it as a necessary cost-cutting measure.
What’s Next?
With tensions already high in Washington, this latest move is likely to fuel more debate. Will Trump’s actions set a new precedent, or will Biden’s allies push back?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Stay updated with the latest news on NIGPOST!
Leave a Reply