Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel, a 13-year-old cancer survivor from Texas, was made an honorary U.S. Secret Service agent during President Donald Trump’s congressional address on Tuesday.

The moment was met with admiration across the country, but not without criticism from MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow, who called Trump “disgusting” for highlighting DJ’s battle with cancer.

Trump's Sovereign Wealth Fund: What Could It Mean For Your Money?

MORE NEWS: Trump Officials Torch Politico’s ‘Journalistic Malpractice’ Report on Russian Sanctions

DJ’s father, Theodis Daniel, had strong words for Maddow’s remarks.

This Could Be the Most Important Video Gun Owners Watch All Year

Do you support the tariffs that President Trump is imposing on other countries?

By completing the poll, you agree to receive emails from LifeZette, occasional offers from our partners and that you've read and agree to our privacy policy and legal statement.

“She needs to shut her mouth if she has nothing nice to say,” Theodis told The Post.

“This lady didn’t even serve time in the military. I was on the USS Kitty Hawk. She does not need to put her bad energy on us.”

DJ’s story has inspired many, and his recognition by President Trump marked another milestone in his long-standing connection with law enforcement.

The honor was made official when Secret Service Director Sean Curran swore him in as an honorary agent.

MORE NEWS: Former Runaway Rocker Goes Full MAGA, Destroys Democrats [WATCH]

Theodis Daniel described how his son was invited to the event.

Close

“The White House reached out to us and said that President Trump wants to meet Devarjaye,” he said. “They flew us out and FBI agents picked us up at the airport.”

Before Trump’s speech, DJ had the opportunity to meet border security advisor Tom Homan and was escorted to a prime seat in the audience.

“We sat next to Mr. Elon [Musk], the first lady was in front of us, and [FBI Director] Kash Patel was at my son’s right shoulder,” Theodis recalled.

“The first lady was nice, sweet, down to earth. Mr. Elon shook hands with us.”

MORE NEWS: Trump Bursts Out Laughing at Slogan Worn by Veteran with a Prosthetic Leg [WATCH]

Trump called DJ “a young man who truly loves our police” and recognized his dedication to law enforcement.

DJ’s induction into the Secret Service was his 909th swearing-in as an honorary officer.

His aunt, Jane Daniel, was not surprised.

“I thought it was awesome for my nephew. He deserves it,” she said.

“I think that such an honor will help him to reach his goals. If you can accomplish this, you can accomplish anything.”

DJ was diagnosed with Stage 3 brain cancer in September 2018 at just six years old.

His family had recently moved from San Antonio to Houston, and his mother, Demitra Johnson, described the terrifying moment she realized something was wrong.

“His body stiffened and suddenly he was foaming at the mouth,” she said. “We rushed him to the hospital.”

MORE NEWS: Yale Shuts Down Anti-Israel Student Group Over ‘Disturbing Anti-Semitic Conduct’ [WATCH]

A CAT scan revealed a tumor “the size of a lemon,” Theodis said. Doctors gave DJ just five months to live, but six years later, he continues to fight.

Despite his terminal diagnosis, his treatments are ongoing.

“Each surgery has changed DJ’s personality a little bit,” his mother said, though she remains hopeful.

“I feel like he’s been born 13 times. He’s so strong and has a heart of gold.”

DJ’s love for law enforcement began early.

MORE NEWS: Crockett Rants on Live TV: Her Vs Trump’s IQ, Calls Musk ‘Idiot’ [WATCH]

Inspired by Houston police officers’ response to Hurricane Harvey, he wanted to become a police officer.

In 2019, at just six years old, he was sworn in as an honorary officer with the Brookshire, Texas, police department.

“Two years later, I called the Texas state troopers to see if they would come out for Devarjaye’s ninth birthday, and we had a swarm of police officers,” Theodis said.

“The officers swore him in, and it grew from there. Suddenly, everyone wanted to have him in.”

His dedication was honored on Tuesday when Trump declared, “We’re going to do you the biggest honor of them all. I am asking our new Secret Service director, Sean Curran, to officially make you an agent of the United States.”

“He takes a lot of pride in being made a police officer,” Theodis said. “The other officers bring him camaraderie and confidence.”

While the night was a memorable one for DJ and his family, Theodis was disappointed by the behavior of some Democratic lawmakers.

“When [Rep.] Al Green [D-Texas] stood up and made that ruckus, I was disgusted,” he said. “What kind of message is he sending?”

Despite the criticism, DJ’s family remains focused on positivity. “Devarjaye has overcome the odds,” his aunt Jane said.

“It’s all in who you are inside. I think God has given a tough battle to a good one. I believe that God is looking out for him and making sure that the right hands are touching him.”

Connect with Vetted Off-Duty Cops to Instantly Fulfill Your Security Needs

The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of LifeZette. Contact us for guidelines on submitting your own commentary.