Torres Introduces Legislation Protecting Vice Presidents for Life

Press Release

Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (D-CA) today announced she will introduce the Protecting Vice Presidents Act, legislation to provide lifetime Secret Service benefits to all former Vice Presidents, their spouses, and their children.

The bill comes after audio recordings of the mob that attacked the U.S. Capitol on January 6th, 2021 clearly capture rioters chanting: "Hang Mike Pence". In front of the Capitol, rioters ominously erected gallows.

Following the attack, Vice President Pence refused to invoke the 25th Amendment, arguably neglecting to fulfill his oath to protect the Constitution from all enemies, foreign and domestic. The chronology of events leaves open the alarming possibility that Vice President Pence refused to act out of concern for his safety and the safety of his loved ones.

Rep. Torres released the following statements:

"Every American heard the chants threatening Vice President Pence's life on cell phone videos from the January 6th attack on our Capitol," Rep. Torres said. "Vice Presidents serve every American, regardless of their party affiliation or political ideology. They must be free to conduct their official duties without fear of violence or retribution, whether it comes while they are in office or later as a private citizen. The bill I will introduce removes that concern, and ensures the threat of violence will never prevail over the oath these public servants swear."

Currently, Vice Presidents are authorized to receive only six months of protection after leaving office. The Protecting Vice Presidents Act would ensure they receive the same protections provided to former Presidents.

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