In a controversial move, former President Donald Trump has rescinded the Secret Service protection for Kamala Harris, the former Vice President of the United States. This decision was confirmed on Friday by a senior White House official.
According to U.S. law, former vice presidents are entitled to a six-month period of protection after leaving office. However, former President Joe Biden extended this security measure for Harris until January 2026 through an executive memo signed in January, just before he left office.
The revocation order was communicated to the Department of Homeland Security and the Secret Service on Thursday and is set to take effect on September 1st. After that date, the security team assigned to Harris will be reassigned to New York to prepare for the United Nations General Assembly.
Kirsten Allen, Harris's senior advisor, expressed gratitude towards the Secret Service, applauding their "professionalism, dedication, and unwavering commitment to safety."
This decision comes just weeks ahead of Harris's scheduled 15-city tour in September to promote her memoir, "107 Days." The book reflects on her brief presidential campaign as a Democratic candidate following Biden's withdrawal after a disastrous debate against Trump.
Despite her loss in the 2024 elections, Harris has left the door open for a potential presidential run in 2028. She announced in July that she would not be running for California's governorship in 2026.
Trump has similarly withdrawn federal protections from other notable figures, including President Biden's children, Hunter and Ashley, and former national security advisor John Bolton, all of whom have been critics of his administration. These actions have even affected some members of his own cabinet, such as former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
Under current law, the Secret Service is mandated to provide lifetime protection to former presidents and their spouses, as well as to any children under the age of 16. For former vice presidents, the standard protection period is six months unless extended by executive order, as was the case with Harris.
As of now, Trump's advisors have remained silent, declining to comment on this withdrawal of protection.
Key Questions on Secret Service Protection Changes
Why did Trump revoke Kamala Harris's Secret Service protection?
While no official reason has been provided, it aligns with Trump's pattern of withdrawing protections from critics of his administration.
How long are former vice presidents typically protected by the Secret Service?
Former vice presidents are usually entitled to six months of protection after leaving office, unless extended by an executive order.
What is the Secret Service's obligation towards former presidents?
The Secret Service is required by law to provide lifetime protection to former presidents and their spouses, and to any children under 16 years old.