Trump Ends Fauci’s Federal Security Detail, Claims No Responsibility for Potential Harm
President Donald Trump has ended the federal security detail for Dr. Anthony Fauci, the leading infectious disease expert who served as a key advisor during the COVID-19 pandemic. A source familiar with the matter confirmed on Friday that Fauci’s security protection was revoked on Thursday, following a growing trend of Trump’s former aides-turned-critics losing their federal security amid ongoing threats.
Speaking to reporters in North Carolina, Trump expressed that he would not feel responsible if harm befell Fauci or others who have had their security details canceled. The source, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the information, also revealed that Fauci has since hired private security to ensure his protection.
When questioned about Fauci and other former officials, including former national security adviser John Bolton, Trump remarked, “They all made a lot of money. They can hire their own security, too.”
Trump Revokes Protection for Several Former Aides
This move follows Trump’s earlier decision to revoke federal security for other former officials who have been outspoken critics of his administration. Earlier this week, Trump canceled the protection details for former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, his top aide Brian Hook, and Bolton—who have all faced significant threats from Iran due to their hardline stances during Trump’s presidency. These former officials also fell out of favor with Trump after he left office in 2021.
Despite ongoing threats, both the Biden administration and Trump’s own government had extended protection to these individuals. Fauci, in particular, had been facing threats to his life and had received federal protection for several years. Under the Biden administration, Fauci’s security detail was renewed due to rising domestic threats, while Bolton, Hook, and Pompeo received protection because of credible threats from Iran.
Trump’s Stance on Lifelong Security Protection
Trump, a Republican, defended his decision by saying, “You can’t have a security detail for the rest of your life because you worked for government.” His comments underscore his belief that federal protection for former officials should not continue indefinitely, even in the face of ongoing threats.
The cancellation of Fauci’s security detail is the latest chapter in a continuing series of political tensions and public clashes between Trump and his former allies.
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