United States President Donald Trump has been accused of enacting a “fresh act of revenge” by withdrawing Kamala Harris‘ Secret Service protection. This decision has raised concerns about the safety of the former vice president, particularly as she prepares for a 15-city book tour next month to promote her memoir, titled 107 Days.
According to CNN, Trump issued a signed memo directing Kristi Noem, the Secretary of Homeland Security, to “discontinue any security-related procedures previously authorized by executive memorandum, beyond those required by law” for Harris, effective from September 1, 2023. This action comes after Harris’s protection, which typically lasts six months following the end of a vice presidency, concluded on July 21, 2023. However, former President Joe Biden had extended her security by an additional year, maintaining it until January 2026.
Harris, who served as the Democratic nominee for a brief period before Biden withdrew from the 2024 presidential race, has faced political backlash since Trump’s victory in November. The former vice president’s book tour could potentially place her in vulnerable situations, amplifying the implications of Trump’s decision.
Historically, the United States Secret Service is tasked with protecting high-profile political figures, including former vice presidents and their families. Typically, this protection is extended for six months after leaving office, but exceptions can be made based on individual circumstances. Biden’s decision to extend Harris’s security was seen as a necessary measure, given the political climate.
Trump’s approach since taking office has involved withdrawing security for several individuals he views as political adversaries. Among those affected are former national security adviser John Bolton, former secretary of state Mike Pompeo, and former military officer Mark Milley. In March, he also eliminated security for Biden’s children, calling it “ridiculous” for Hunter Biden to have a detail of up to 18 people.
Harris’s office confirmed the recent withdrawal of her security detail. Kirsten Allen, a senior adviser to Harris, expressed gratitude towards the Secret Service for their dedication and professionalism. Democrats have rallied in support of Harris, particularly in California, where she previously served as a senator.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass condemned Trump’s actions, describing them as “another act of revenge following a long list of political retaliation.” She emphasized the potential risks involved in removing Harris’s protection and expressed her commitment to collaborating with state officials to ensure the vice president’s safety during her book tour.
U.S. Senator Adam Schiff, a Democrat from California and a frequent critic of Trump, remarked that this action serves as “another dangerous reminder that there’s no agenda more important to Donald Trump than retribution.” The withdrawal of protection for Harris has reignited discussions about the implications of political actions on the safety and security of public figures.
As the controversy unfolds, the implications of Trump’s decision extend beyond Harris, reflecting a broader pattern of political retribution that has characterized his tenure. The move raises questions about the safety of political figures and the role of the Secret Service in navigating partisan tensions.
