Thompson Proposes Removing Secret Service Protection for Convicted Felons
Legislation Introduced in House
Mississippi Representative Bennie Thompson, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, has introduced legislation that would remove Secret Service protection from any individual convicted of a felony and sentenced to prison.
The legislation, titled the "Denying Infinite Protection to Disgraced Former Protectees Act," was introduced in response to the recent conviction of former President Donald Trump's ally, Roger Stone, who was sentenced to 40 months in prison for obstructing a congressional investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election.
Thompson argued that individuals who have committed serious crimes should not continue to receive taxpayer-funded Secret Service protection, which is typically reserved for presidents, vice presidents, and other high-ranking government officials.
"It is outrageous that convicted felons are still receiving Secret Service protection at taxpayer expense," said Thompson. "These individuals have betrayed the public trust and should not be eligible for this privilege, which is reserved for those who have served our country with honor."
The legislation has received support from several other Democratic lawmakers, including Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Representative Jerrold Nadler. Nadler said that the bill "addresses a serious flaw in our current system" and that it is "simply unacceptable" for convicted felons to continue to receive Secret Service protection.
If passed, the legislation would have a significant impact on former Trump allies who have been convicted of crimes and are still receiving Secret Service protection, including former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn and former campaign manager Paul Manafort.
Conclusion
Thompson's legislation has sparked a debate about the appropriate use of Secret Service protection and the need to hold convicted criminals accountable for their actions. The bill is a reminder that those who violate the law, regardless of their former status, should not be afforded the same privileges as those who have served their country with honor.
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