Controversy Surrounds Withdrawal of Kamala Harris' Security Detail

Tue Sep 23 2025 12:32:32 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

As former Vice President Kamala Harris prepares for a book tour, the recent withdrawal of her Secret Service protection raises questions about political motivations and safety amidst past threats.

Kamala Harris' Secret Service security detail has been revoked by President Trump seven months after her term ended, sparking controversy and claims of political motivation. Debate surrounds the legality and safety implications of this decision, especially as Harris faces heightened threats as a historic political figure. While the Biden administration extended her protection after she left office, current assessments suggest no alarming threats merit ongoing security. Critics argue this reflects political retribution rather than necessary evaluations of risk.

Controversy Surrounds Withdrawal of Kamala Harris' Security Detail

45 minutes agoBernd Debusmann Jr, at the White House

Getty — Unlike former presidents, vice-presidents are not guaranteed protection for the rest of their lives.

President Donald Trump has cancelled former Vice President Kamala Harris' Secret Service detail seven months after she left office following her unsuccessful presidential campaign.

By law, the US Secret Service provides former vice-presidents and their families six months of protection after their terms end but can extend this protection. Former President Joe Biden reportedly did extend it before leaving office.

The withdrawal has triggered controversy, with California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass accusing the decision of being politically motivated.

Why did Biden extend her security?

Neither Biden nor Harris has publicly commented on the reasons for extending her security beyond the mandated six months, though Biden reportedly did so for one year. According to a law enacted in 2008, the Secret Service can provide protection to former vice-presidents, their spouses, and children under 16, with the Secretary of Homeland Security holding authority for extended protection in certain situations.

Does Harris face enhanced risks?

Recent threat assessments reportedly found no significant threats to justify continued security for Harris. However, there are concerns among her team regarding risks faced as a prominent female figure of color in a contentious political climate.

Harris has faced threats publicly, including arrests in connection to online threats during her time in office.

What elements of security are being taken away?

Secret Service protection includes several security measures beyond personal agents, such as home security installations and monitoring of potential threats.

Is this political retribution from Trump?

Critics believe the move to revoke Harris' security detail is politically motivated, reflecting broader patterns during Trump's presidency where security for individuals he views as opponents was stripped.

Are the rules different for former presidents?

Unlike former vice-presidents, presidents are granted lifetime protection unless they opt out, a benefit enshrined in law following revisions aimed at cost-saving in the past.