(TheIndependentStar.com) – In a decision that undoubtedly puts Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in physical danger, the United States Secret Service has officially ceased its protective services for the former independent presidential candidate following his decision to suspend his campaign for the presidency last week.
This development was confirmed by a spokesperson for the Secret Service who stated to the New York Post, “That’s correct. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is no longer receiving U.S. Secret Service protection.”
Kennedy, who had expressed significant concerns regarding his personal security, had been advocating for Secret Service protection for an extended period, Newsmax reports.
However, the provision of such security measures was not authorized by the Biden administration until after the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump on July 13.
This incident significantly underscored the potential risks associated with political engagements.
In a concerning sequence of events, September witnessed the arrest of an individual who arrived at a Kennedy campaign event impersonating a US Marshal and armed with two firearms.
The following month, another alarming incident occurred when an intruder, who had previously been apprehended, once again appeared at Kennedy’s residence in Los Angeles with requests to converse with Kennedy himself.
These incidents occur in the shadow of a tragic family history, as Kennedy’s father and uncle were both victims of assassination in the 1960s, highlighting the continuing concerns for his safety amidst his political involvement.
Legally, the Secret Service is tasked with the responsibility of providing security to major political figures and their spouses within the 120 days leading up to an election.
While Kennedy has not completely terminated his presidential campaign, he strategically withdrew his candidacy from the ballot in certain states.
This decision was aimed at avoiding the potential dilution of votes that could inadvertently benefit Trump, despite having successfully secured a place on the ballots in over 20 states prior to his withdrawal.
The Secret Service has been under severe scrutiny recently due to perceived lapses in security that preceded the attempt on Trump’s life at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
This scrutiny led to the resignation of former Director Kim Cheadle and the reassignment of several officers to administrative duties in the aftermath of the incident.
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