Controversy Erupts Over Withdrawal of Kamala Harris' Secret Service Detail

President Donald Trump has canceled former Vice President Kamala Harris' Secret Service detail, seven months after she left office following her unsuccessful presidential campaign. Under US law, former vice-presidents receive six months of protection after leaving office, but this can be extended. Reports suggest that former President Biden had extended her protection by a year, a move that has now led to a political firestorm.

California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have characterized the cancellation as politically motivated, highlighting the tension between Harris and Trump, as well as potential safety concerns surrounding Harris given her historic role as the first woman and person of color to serve as vice president.

Sources suggest that despite a recent threat assessment indicating no alarming dangers for Harris, her team remains concerned about her safety as threats against her were prevalent during her campaign and vice presidency. Critics of Trump argue that the move could be seen as vindictive, particularly since he has stripped protections from other political figures who criticized him.

Unlike former presidents, who are granted lifetime Secret Service protection, former vice-presidents like Harris do not have such guarantees. The implications of this action may reverberate through security protocols for former leaders, suggesting a shift in how political rivalries could directly influence the safety of officials.

As Harris prepares for a multi-city book tour, the need for security will place additional strain on an already overburdened Secret Service, raising further questions about resource allocation and the management of political safety.