Dr. Anthony Fauci, who once served as a pandemic advisor under President Trump, has again become a focal point of political debate after the president decided to terminate the former official’s Secret Service protection. Notably, Fauci had received a preemptive pardon from former President Joe Biden, but that has not dissuaded Trump from expressing displeasure over Fauci’s critiques, especially those included in his tell-all memoir.

At the center of the dispute is a passage from Fauci’s memoir—titled “He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not”—in which he recounts alleged expletive-laden confrontations with President Trump during the height of the 2020 COVID-19 crisis. According to Fauci, Trump’s frustration ranged from policy disagreements to concerns over the stock market’s performance amid the pandemic, leading to intense private exchanges behind the scenes.

Addressing reporters this week, President Trump defended his move to revoke Secret Service detail for both Dr. Fauci and former national security adviser John Bolton. Trump argued that individuals who have transitioned out of public service—and notably, those who have since profited through book deals—can manage their own security. “You can’t have a protection detail for the rest of your life just because you worked for government,” he explained.

Critics say the withdrawal of federal protection for political figures and outspoken critics sets a contentious precedent. However, the Trump administration has been adamant that it is standard procedure to reassess security needs over time. Many point to the recent appointment of Sean Curran, Trump’s long-time head of security, to lead the embattled Secret Service, signaling a potential shift in agency protocols.

To learn more about how these changes could affect broader political norms and security policies, visit Politico for in-depth coverage and expert analysis.

Even as Dr. Fauci continues to speak candidly about his turbulent time in the White House, the decision to remove his Secret Service protection underscores the ongoing tension between Trump and his former advisors—tension that shows little sign of easing in the near future.