President Donald Trump has ended Secret Service protection for Joe Biden’s adult children, Hunter and Ashley. This decision raises concerns about their safety, especially Hunter, who has faced intense criticism from some political groups.
Secret Service protection is generally provided to former presidents and their families. While children receive protection until they are 16, they can remain protected longer if a president issues an executive order. Joe Biden had extended protection for his children, following a trend set by former presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and even Trump himself. As Biden left office on January 20, 2025, this protection was still applicable.
Some experts argue that Trump’s decision could set a precedent. For example, Gregory T. Nojeim, a privacy and security expert, pointed out that revoking such protection might undermine the protocols intended to safeguard political figures’ families. In the past, when a family member’s safety becomes a concern, such as with high-profile cases involving political families, it typically draws media attention and public discourse surrounding security measures.
In public responses, Trump expressed his reasoning on his platform, Truth Social. He claimed that Hunter and Ashley’s protection was excessive, pointing out the financial implications for taxpayers. This statement resonated with some of his supporters but sparked outrage from others who believe that everyone deserves security, especially those who could be targeted due to their family ties to a former president.
While it is legally unclear whether Trump can revoke such protections entirely, similar scenarios have emerged in the past. For instance, during the Obama administration, there was debate over whether similar measures could be taken against political opponents. Ultimately, the structure of the Secret Service is designed to prevent any single president from unilaterally undermining security for political rivals, as it requires collaboration with various officials, including a bipartisan advisory committee.
In 1965, Congress established the framework for Secret Service protection under Public Law 89-186, primarily aimed at ensuring safety for former presidents and their families. This legislative backing shows that while presidents have certain executive powers, there are limits to what can be revoked unilaterally, particularly when it involves previously established protections.
As the conversation continues, it remains uncertain whether the Bidens will seek legal recourse in response to this decision. Should they choose to challenge it, the outcome could shape future policies regarding Secret Service protections for families of elected officials, including dilemmas about resource allocation and family security.
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