In a move drawing widespread attention and criticism, President Donald Trump has terminated Secret Service protection for former Vice President Kamala Harris, effective September 1, 2025. The decision reverses an extension granted by President Joe Biden, depriving Harris of enhanced federal security as she prepares to re-enter the public arena.
Under federal law, Secret Service protection for former vice presidents is guaranteed for six months after leaving office. Harris’s term ended on January 20, 2025, meaning she would have lost protection by late July 2025. However, in a less visible decision prior to departing, President Biden extended Harris’s coverage to January 2026, at her request.
In a letter dated August 28, 2025, the White House informed Harris that the extended security would end on September 1. The directive was issued via a formal memorandum to the Department of Homeland Security.
The removal of Secret Service protection comes at a critical moment: Harris is scheduled to launch a 15-city book tour in September to promote her memoir 107 Days, set for release on September 23. Critics warn that withdrawing federal protection amid heightened visibility could jeopardize her safety.
Political Repercussions
The decision has been characterized by opponents as retributive. California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office declined to discuss security specifics, while Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass condemned the move, calling it “another act of revenge” that could place Harris at risk.
Similarly, U.S. Senator Adam Schiff labeled the decision “another dangerous reminder that there’s no agenda more important to Donald Trump than retribution.”
This is not an isolated action. The Trump administration has previously revoked Secret Service protection for several individuals granted coverage during the Biden era, including former national security adviser John Bolton, President Biden’s children Hunter and Ashley, and others deemed to be critics.
Despite the revocation, a recent Secret Service threat assessment reportedly found no credible threats to Harris, raising further questions about the justification for stripping her protection. Security experts, however, caution that such cuts during politically charged times can heighten risks.
In response, California authorities are reportedly coordinating to offer alternative security, including involvement from the California Highway Patrol (CHP). However, details remain undisclosed.
Harris, who lost the 2024 presidential election to Trump, has announced she will not run for California governor in 2026. However, she remains a prominent figure in Democratic politics and has not ruled out a 2028 presidential bid.
The abrupt end to Harris’s Secret Service detail underscores tensions surrounding presidential discretion in national security matters. As she steps into the public eye again, the abrupt withdrawal places added scrutiny on the balance between protocol, politics, and protection.
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