Kennedy’s repeated denials for Secret Service protection are a “political scandal” according to an independent presidential candidate. The Biden administration has denied five requests for federal security for Mr. Kennedy, despite requests from several of his siblings. Kerry Kennedy and Rory Kennedy, among others, expressed concerns that Mr. Kennedy’s candidacy could impact President Biden’s re-election chances and potentially lead to a return of former President Trump to the White House.
Mr. Kennedy, who entered the presidential race challenging President Biden for the Democratic party nomination, has faced obstacles from the Democratic National Committee. Accusing the organization of unfair practices, Mr. Kennedy decided to run as an independent last October. Despite President Biden’s admiration for Robert F. Kennedy, the former U.S. attorney general and New York senator, Mr. Kennedy has not been granted Secret Service protection.
The denial of protection has raised safety concerns for Mr. Kennedy and his family, especially after multiple incidents involving armed individuals attempting to access his campaign events or residence. Mr. Kennedy has criticized the administration for using federal law enforcement agencies for political purposes and has expressed disappointment in the repeated refusals for protection.
The Secretary of Homeland Security, Alejandro Mayorkas, has denied Mr. Kennedy Secret Service protection multiple times, citing recommendations from an advisory committee that includes both Republican and Democratic leaders. Mr. Kennedy’s attorney has threatened legal action against Mr. Mayorkas, holding him personally responsible if any harm comes to Mr. Kennedy or bystanders due to the lack of protection. Mayorkas refused to disclose the identities of individuals deemed a threat to Mr. Kennedy by the Secret Service. In response to the lack of protection for the candidate, a warning was issued stating that accountability would be sought if any harm befell Mr. Kennedy or any member of the public due to the absence of Secret Service protection. The warning highlighted the potential risks and consequences of attacks on public figures.
Since the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy in 1968, at least 32 candidates have received Secret Service protection. Despite having less financial support and lower national polling than Mr. Kennedy, these candidates were granted protection based on perceived threats. Judicial Watch filed a lawsuit seeking information on why Mr. Kennedy’s protection requests were denied. The documents revealed that the Secret Service does not independently determine candidate protection qualifications.
The Biden administration has the authority to authorize Secret Service protection for Mr. Kennedy, as confirmed in official correspondence. However, multiple requests for protection have been declined, leading to accusations of bureaucratic obstruction and political motives. Private security firms, including one owned by Gavin de Becker, have stepped in to provide protection to Mr. Kennedy.
Historical examples were cited to highlight the precedent of offering Secret Service protection to candidates well before elections. The denial of protection to Mr. Kennedy was criticized as unprecedented and potentially interfering with the electoral process. Despite the challenges, Mr. Kennedy remains determined to continue his campaign and secure victory in the upcoming election. Can you please rewrite this text for me?
Source link
