Decision Sparks Controversy as Former Vice President Prepares for Nationwide Public Appearances

August 29, 2025

Washington, D.C. - President Donald Trump has revoked the Secret Service protection for former Vice President Kamala Harris, effective September 1, 2025, according to a memorandum obtained by multiple news outlets. The decision, which reverses an extension granted by former President Joe Biden, comes as Harris prepares to embark on a high-profile, 15-city book tour to promote her memoir, 107 Days, detailing her 2024 presidential campaign.

Under the 2008 Former Vice President Protection Act, former vice presidents are entitled to six months of Secret Service protection after leaving office, a period that ended for Harris on July 21, 2025. However, Biden had quietly signed an executive memorandum extending Harris’ protection for an additional year, citing heightened security concerns due to her historic role as the first woman and first person of color to serve as vice president, as well as ongoing threats. Trump’s directive, titled “Memorandum for the Secretary of Homeland Security,” instructs the Secret Service to “discontinue any security-related procedures previously authorized by Executive Memorandum, beyond those required by law” for Harris, effectively ending her federal protection early.

The move has drawn sharp criticism from Democratic leaders and security experts, who argue it leaves Harris vulnerable at a time of heightened political polarization. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called the decision “another act of revenge” in a statement to CNN, emphasizing that it puts Harris in danger. “I look forward to working with the Governor to make sure Vice President Harris is safe in Los Angeles,” Bass added. California Governor Gavin Newsom, briefed on the situation late Thursday, expressed outrage through his spokesperson, Bob Salladay, who stated, “The safety of our public officials should never be subject to erratic, vindictive political impulses.”

Harris’ team has expressed gratitude for the Secret Service’s service. “The Vice President is grateful to the United States Secret Service for their professionalism, dedication, and unwavering commitment to safety,” said Kirsten Allen, a senior adviser to Harris. However, the loss of federal protection, which includes continuous threat intelligence, analytical support, and in-person security, poses significant challenges. Private security arrangements could cost millions annually, and discussions are underway with California officials to explore alternative protection measures for Harris, a Los Angeles resident.

The decision aligns with a pattern of Trump revoking Secret Service protection for political adversaries since taking office in January 2025. He has previously ended security details for former National Security Adviser John Bolton, former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and former President Biden’s adult children, Hunter and Ashley. Critics argue these moves reflect political retaliation, particularly given ongoing threats faced by some of these figures, such as Bolton and Pompeo, who are targeted by Iran.

Harris’ upcoming book tour, set to begin in late September, will place her in the public eye after a period of relative seclusion since leaving office. The memoir, 107 Days, chronicles her brief and unsuccessful presidential campaign against Trump in 2024. The timing of the protection revocation has raised concerns among security experts, who note that Harris’ visibility and historic status make her a potential target.

Neither the White House nor the Secret Service immediately responded to requests for comment on the decision. As Harris prepares for her tour, the debate over the safety of public officials in a polarized climate continues to intensify.