In a significant political move, Donald Trump has revoked the Secret Service protection for former Vice President Kamala Harris. This decision comes just before Harris is set to begin a promotional tour for her upcoming memoir, titled 107 Days, which is scheduled for release on September 23, 2023.
Typically, former vice presidents receive federal protection for six months after leaving office, while ex-presidents enjoy lifetime security. However, sources familiar with the situation revealed that then-President Joe Biden had signed a directive extending Harris’s protection beyond the standard period. The reasons for Trump’s recent action, which will terminate Harris’s security detail effective Monday, have raised concerns among security experts.
Background and Implications
The revocation of Harris’s protection occurs as she prepares for a book tour that includes 15 stops, with international appearances in London and Toronto. Given the politically charged atmosphere in the United States, the decision has sparked alarm among those concerned about the safety of public figures. Notably, Trump has previously cut security for other individuals who fell out of favor during his presidency, including former National Security Adviser John Bolton and members of Biden’s family.
Security analysts emphasize that continuity of protection is vital in today’s polarized climate. Last year, the political landscape was particularly tumultuous, marked by threats against several political figures. The Secret Service played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the now-President Biden during this period.
Harris’s Political Future
Kamala Harris, who previously served as California’s attorney general and San Francisco district attorney, is viewed as a potential candidate for the 2028 presidential race. Although she lost to Trump in the previous election, her recent decision to not run for California governor in 2026 indicates her focus on a broader political future. The upcoming book tour may further elevate her profile as she addresses her experiences in politics and her time in office.
The news of the revocation was first reported by CNN, highlighting the ongoing tensions in American politics and the implications of security decisions made at the highest levels of government.
As Harris embarks on this new chapter, the impact of Trump’s actions will likely be scrutinized closely, both by security professionals and the public at large.
