RFK Jr. denied Secret Service protection again, fires back
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Denied Secret Service Protection by Biden Administration
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has expressed his frustration with President Joe Biden’s administration for denying him access to Secret Service protection during his campaign for the 2024 presidential election.
According to a report from Deseret News, RFK Jr. had requested protection, believing himself to be a “major candidate.” However, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas sent him a letter for the third time, stating that the Biden administration did not agree with his request.
“Denied Secret Service again!” Kennedy expressed his disappointment in a post on X. “It’s not just about me. It’s another example of the government weaponizing against Biden’s political opponents. They know that 30¢ of every campaign dollar goes to keeping me safe.”
Homeland Security gave no explanation for rejecting our application. Law says all “major candidates” get protection. I’m polling 22% (and 40% among young voters — beating both Biden and Trump). My opinion may be biased, but that seems pretty “major” to me.
— Robert F. Kennedy Jr (@RobertKennedyJr) December 23, 2023
“Homeland Security gave no explanation for rejecting our application. Law says all ‘major candidates’ get protection. I’m polling 22% (and 40% among young voters — beating both Biden and Trump). My opinion may be biased, but that seems pretty ‘major’ to me,” Kennedy added.
In response, Paul Szypula posted, “Biden doesn’t want to provide Secret Service protection because that would only help legitimize RFK’s campaign, which is a direct threat to Biden’s. It’s never about keeping Americans safe with this current administration — it’s about keeping them controlled.”
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Since the assassination of Kennedy’s father on June 5, 1968, “major candidates” and their spouses have been eligible for Secret Service protection. However, the decision to grant such protection is at the discretion of the Homeland Security Secretary.
Typically, major candidates receive Secret Service protection for one year before the election, but the DHS Secretary can extend it if necessary.
What message does the denial of Secret Service protection to RFK Jr. send about the Biden administration’s approach towards political opponents?
Campaign staff and volunteers safe. Denying me protection is a clear message that they want to silence me and my message.”
RFK Jr.’s request for Secret Service protection is not unprecedented. It is common for presidential candidates to receive such protection, especially if they are considered viable candidates with a significant public profile. In fact, RFK Jr. had received Secret Service protection during his previous campaigns for public office. However, his request has been denied by the Biden administration three times now.
The denial of Secret Service protection to RFK Jr. raises questions about the Biden administration’s motives and its approach towards political opponents. Some argue that it sends a chilling message to those who dare to challenge the current administration’s policies and agenda. The denial of protection in this context can be seen as a way to intimidate and deter potential candidates from speaking out against the administration.
RFK Jr.’s frustration with the denial of Secret Service protection is understandable. As a presidential candidate, his safety and the safety of his campaign staff are paramount. Having access to Secret Service protection ensures that candidates can move freely, without fear for their safety, and continue to focus on their campaign objectives. Denying this protection not only puts RFK Jr.’s safety at risk but also undermines the democratic process by potentially restricting his ability to campaign effectively.
Furthermore, RFK Jr.’s allegation of the government weaponizing against political opponents should not be taken lightly. In a healthy democracy, political opponents should be able to engage in open and fair competition, free from intimidation or coercion. Denying Secret Service protection to a candidate based on their political beliefs or criticisms of the administration sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the principles of democracy and political freedom.
It is not uncommon for political opponents to clash during election campaigns. However, it is crucial to ensure that these clashes occur within the bounds of democratic norms and principles. Denying Secret Service protection to RFK Jr. raises concerns about the fairness of the electoral process and the ability of candidates to compete on an equal footing.
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, it is essential for the Biden administration to reassess its decision and provide a valid justification for denying RFK Jr.’s request for Secret Service protection. The administration should prioritize the safety and security of all candidates, regardless of their political affiliations or criticisms. Denying protection to a major candidate undermines the integrity of the electoral process and sends a troubling message about the administration’s commitment to political fairness and inclusivity.
In conclusion, the denial of Secret Service protection to RFK Jr. by the Biden administration raises concerns about the government’s treatment of political opponents. As a presidential candidate, RFK Jr. deserves the same safety and security afforded to other candidates. The denial of protection not only puts his safety at risk but also undermines democratic principles and the ability of candidates to compete on an equal footing. The Biden administration should reconsider its decision and provide a valid justification for denying RFK Jr.’s request.
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