On Thursday, President Donald Trump addressed questions about the recent removal of Dr. Anthony Fauci’s government security detail, asserting that individuals like Fauci, who have had lucrative careers, can afford to hire private security if they feel the need.
While speaking with reporters in Asheville, North Carolina, Trump explained the decision, saying, “I think, you know, when you work for the government, at some point, your security detail comes off. You can’t have them forever.”
REPORTER: "The security detail for Anthony Fauci was terminated last night … Would you feel partially responsible if something were to happen to say, Dr. Fauci or John Bolton?"
— Chief Nerd (@TheChiefNerd) January 24, 2025
TRUMP: "No. They all made a lot of money. They can hire their own security." pic.twitter.com/D4CHuFw7TT
The president elaborated, noting, “We’ve taken security details off other people too. You can’t have a security detail for the rest of your life just because you worked for the government.”
Trump further pointed out the financial success of those affected by the decision. “They all made a lot of money. Fauci made a lot of money. They can hire their own security, too. All the people you’re talking about—they can afford it.”
The termination of Fauci’s security detail is part of a broader move by the Trump administration to revoke similar protections for others. This week, security details were also removed for the 51 intelligence officials who signed a letter in 2020 falsely claiming that the Hunter Biden laptop story had “all the classic earmarks of a Russian information operation.”
Additionally, Trump has ended security coverage for former National Security Advisor John Bolton, who departed the first Trump administration amid public disagreements with the president, as well as former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
Trump’s actions mark a decisive shift in how post-government security arrangements are handled, signaling a focus on scaling back long-term protections. Critics argue that such moves could jeopardize individuals who held sensitive roles, while supporters claim it is a reasonable cost-cutting measure.
The administration has yet to confirm if more former officials may face similar changes, but Trump’s stance remains clear: those who have financially benefited from their government service should take responsibility for their personal security going forward.