In a significant move, Donald Trump has revoked the Secret Service protection for former Vice President Kamala Harris as she prepares for a book tour. This decision comes just before the release of her memoir, titled 107 Days, set to launch on September 23, 2023.
Typically, former vice presidents receive federal protection for six months after leaving office, while ex-presidents are afforded lifelong security. However, it has been reported that Joe Biden, during his presidency, signed a directive extending Harris’ protection beyond the standard period. Sources familiar with the situation revealed this information on condition of anonymity, underscoring the sensitivity of the matter.
Security Detail Terminated Before Scheduled End
A senior official from the Trump administration indicated that an executive memorandum was issued to the Department of Homeland Security on Thursday, officially terminating Harris’ security detail. While her protection was initially set to conclude in July 2026, it will now cease on Monday.
This decision is particularly notable given Harris’ upcoming book tour, which includes 15 stops, with international visits scheduled in London and Toronto. The memoir reflects on her brief presidential campaign and the events that led to her nomination as the Democratic candidate last summer.
Security experts express concern over the implications of this decision, especially in a politically divided atmosphere where threats against public figures have increased. Last year, political tensions surged, with reports of two assassination attempts against Trump himself, highlighting the critical role of the Secret Service in ensuring safety for high-profile individuals.
Historical Context and Concerns
The revocation of Harris’ Secret Service detail has raised alarms among security analysts, who argue that continuity of protection is essential in today’s climate. Trump’s history of stripping security from individuals who fell out of favor, including his former national security adviser John Bolton and members of Biden’s family, adds to the unease surrounding this latest decision.
Harris, a former California attorney general and senator, was a key player in the Democratic Party and is seen as a potential candidate for the 2028 presidential election. Despite her loss to Trump in the previous election, her political future remains significant, and she has publicly stated that she will not pursue a run for California governor in 2026.
The revocation of Harris’ security detail was first reported by CNN, drawing attention to the intricate relationship between politics and personal safety for public figures. As the former vice president embarks on her book tour, the implications of this decision will likely resonate beyond her immediate security concerns.
