Trump
In a consequential move stirring political and security concerns, U.S. President Donald Trump has officially rescinded the extended Secret Service protection for former Vice President Kamala Harris, effective September 1, 2025. This decision comes just as Harris prepares to embark on a high-profile book tour promoting her memoir, 107 Days—all while prompting heated debate from leaders and experts alike.
What Changed — Breaking Down the Move
- Standard Protocol vs. Extended Coverage
By law, former U.S. vice presidents are entitled to six months of Secret Service protection post-tenure—Harris’s tenure ended on January 20, 2025, placing her initial protection expiration around July 21. However, in a rare extension, President Biden quietly authorized an extra year, setting coverage through January 2026 . - Trump’s Revocation
On August 28, 2025, President Trump issued a memorandum terminating this extended protection. The Secret Service protection will conclude on September 1, 2025 .
Context: Why Now? The Book Tour and Security Concerns
This security rollback occurs against the backdrop of Harris’s upcoming 15-city national and international book tour, scheduled to begin in September following the release of her memoir on September 23 . The removal of federal security, including 24/7 protection, threat monitoring, and home security, raises safety concerns. Harris’s team may now need to secure private protection—potentially at significant personal cost .
Repercussions: Safety, Costs, and Political Fallout
- Safety & Intelligence Risks
Without Secret Service support, Harris loses not only physical protection but also critical threat assessments and intelligence-sharing. Security experts warn this could leave her exposed during public appearances - Financial Burden
Private security in high-risk public settings could cost millions annually, a burden now shifted onto Harris and her associates. - Political Backlash
California Governor Gavin Newsom denounced the move, condemning it as politically motivated and reckless. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass echoed these sentiments, calling it “another act of vengeance” and pledging to ensure Harris’s safety locally.
Historical & Legal Context
Presidential discretion has historically allowed extensions of Secret Service protection beyond statutory limits. For example, President Obama extended protection for Dick Cheney in 2009. But terminating such extensions, especially for a former vice president—and one facing a busy public schedule—is highly unusual and unprecedented in its timing and tone .
Political Implications & Future Stakes
This decision is tinged with partisanship. Trump has previously revoked security and clearance for figures like John Bolton, Mike Pompeo, and members of Biden’s family—signaling a pattern of targeting rivals
Moreover, as Harris remains a potential contender for the 2028 presidential race, this development could have broader implications for her public visibility and political trajectory .
Summary Snapshot
| Aspect | Key Insights |
|---|---|
| What Changed | Secret Service protection for Kamala Harris ended early on Sept. 1, 2025. |
| Why It Matters | Occurs just before her national book tour, raising safety and financial issues. |
| Political Reaction | Strong criticism from California leadership and Democratic allies, citing political retribution. |
| Legal Norms | Extending protection is not uncommon—but revoking it in this fashion is. |
| Broader Impact | Sparks debate on politicizing national security and affecting future campaigns. |
In sum, the withdrawal of Secret Service protection from Kamala Harris illustrates how security can become enmeshed in partisan politics, especially during heightened national polarization. As Harris prepares to step back into the public eye, the costs—both literal and symbolic—of this decision could reverberate throughout her political journey and legacy.
Thanks For Reading