DHS Secretary Mayorkas Confirms RFK Jr. Will Get Secret Service Protection

Alejandro Mayorkas, the secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), announced on July 15 that independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will receive Secret Service protection moving forward.

“In light of this weekend’s events, the president has directed me to work with the Secret Service to provide protection to Robert Kennedy Jr.,” Mr. Mayorkas said.

The announcement was made at a White House press briefing with press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

Mr. Mayorkas said security protection will increase for the 2024 presidential candidates and for this week’s Republican National Convention (RNC) after Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, tried to assassinate former President Donald Trump on July 13.

Mr. Kennedy had asked DHS to provide him with Secret Service protection multiple times before this weekend’s events, but said his requests were denied.

Mr. Mayorkas said RNC security was ramped up. “We have steadily increased implementation of significant physical and technical enhancements at every protective venue in support of protectees, including miles of anti-scale fencing, screening, technology and tactical support,” he said.

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“In light of what is going on in the world today, I believe it is imperative that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. receive Secret Service protection—immediately. Given the history of the Kennedy Family, this is the obvious right thing to do!” the former president said.

“It is a hopeful sign for our country when a political opponent calls for one’s protection. Maybe our country can unite after all,” he said.

This is a developing story.