Trump has decided to terminate Secret Service protection for Hunter and Ashley Biden. He announced on his conservative social media platform that the security detail for Hunter Biden would be withdrawn "immediately."
On Monday, during a visit to the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., Trump was questioned by a reporter about Hunter Biden's security while he was vacationing in South Africa. Trump replied that he would address the matter later that day, and his social media post followed a few hours after this interaction.
Previously, Trump had removed Secret Service protection for John Bolton, Mike Pompeo, and Mark Milley, despite threats against them from Iran due to their roles in his first administration. He also ended the security detail for Dr. Anthony Fauci amid threats related to the federal response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Trump had remarked that lifetime protection is not feasible.
Typically, Secret Service protection is provided to presidents, vice presidents, and their families during their terms. Former presidents and their spouses can retain this protection for life unless they opt out. Federal law also extends security to the children of former presidents until they turn 16, though outgoing presidents can choose to extend it. Hunter Biden is 55, and Ashley Biden is 43.
After the 2020 election, Trump ensured his four adult children and their spouses had Secret Service protection for an additional six months. Before leaving office, Joe Biden issued a controversial pardon for his son concerning tax evasion and federal gun charges. Recent reports indicate that Hunter Biden is facing financial difficulties and lacks a permanent residence, according to court documents. He remains a focal point of Republican criticism, including from Trump and Vice President JD Vance.