House Democrats have introduced a bill that would remove Secret Service protection from convicted felons who are sentenced to prison, particularly targeting former President Trump who is currently facing multiple criminal trials, including one in New York City for alleged hush money payments during the 2016 election campaign. Rep. Bennie Thompson introduced the proposed legislation, called the “Denying Infinite Security and Government Resources Allocated toward Convicted and Extremely Dishonorable (DISGRACED) Former Protectees Act,” which would automatically revoke protection for those convicted of a felony that carries a minimum one-year prison sentence.
Thompson expressed concern that current law does not consider how Secret Service protection could impact the prison sentence of a protectee, such as a former President. The bill aims to address the unique situation presented by Trump’s unprecedented 91 felony charges in federal and state courts. It also seeks to ensure that Secret Service protection does not interfere with the criminal judicial process and administration of justice for those convicted of serious offenses. The legislation would apply to all former Secret Service protectees who are convicted and sentenced under felony charges.
The proposed bill aims to prevent logistical difficulties for both the Secret Service and prison authorities in the event that a protectee is sentenced to prison. It also seeks to eliminate the potential for conflicting lines of authority within prisons and allow judges to determine the appropriate sentencing for individuals without having to account for the presence of Secret Service protection. The legislation would provide assurance to the American people that protective status does not result in special treatment for those convicted of felonies, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law.
Secret Service protection is typically provided to current presidents, their family members, former presidents, and other high-level officials. Following the assassination of Senator Robert F. Kennedy in 1968, protection was expanded to include major party presidential nominees. Trump, who is currently facing multiple legal challenges, including charges in Georgia, Florida, and Washington D.C., has pleaded not guilty to all allegations. Despite the legal battles, Trump continues to receive Secret Service protection, prompting concerns about the potential implications for his sentencing and incarceration.
The bill introduced by House Democrats seeks to address the unique circumstances presented by the potential conviction of Trump on multiple felony charges. It is designed to ensure that those convicted and sentenced to prison, including former presidents, are not granted special treatment due to their protective status. By removing Secret Service protection from convicted felons facing prison sentences, the legislation aims to streamline the judicial process and uphold the principles of justice and accountability. The proposed law would apply to all Secret Service protectees convicted of serious offenses, including Trump if he is found guilty in any of his ongoing legal cases.
