With Kamala Harris set to lose her Secret Service protection soon, her safety has become a hot topic amid the ongoing political tussle between Gavin Newsom and Donald Trump.
Harris, gearing up for a 15-date book tour starting September 24 for her memoir 107 Days, is facing this security shift after Trump canceled her extended protection. This extension, which pushed a typical six-month security detail to 18 months, was granted by President Biden in response to threats Harris faced as the first woman and first person of color in the role.
Trump’s decision was communicated through a brief letter to the Department of Homeland Security. This isn’t an isolated incident; earlier this year, Trump also revoked Harris’s security clearance and that of others, citing Joe Biden’s past removal of Trump’s clearance due to alleged “erratic behavior.”
Harris’s team responded to the cancellation with a measured statement, expressing gratitude to the Secret Service for their work. However, there are reports that Newsom has arranged for California Highway Patrol (CHP) support for Harris, ensuring her safety during the transition. Newsom’s office hasn’t confirmed the specifics but emphasized the need for public officials to be secure, free from volatile political decisions.
While the CHP’s protection won’t match the extensive Secret Service protocol, Harris will still enjoy a level of safety equivalent to other dignitaries in California, like the Governor. Ongoing discussions about her security during national travels are expected, especially with her upcoming book tour which spans the US, Canada, and the UK.
Historical context shows that former VPs have typically received six months of Secret Service protection, per legislation enacted in 2008. Cheney is a notable case, receiving an extension post-presidency due to threats, but unlike Harris, he has been without protection since. Trump and Mike Pence also currently lack active Secret Service details.
As the UN General Assembly approaches, Trump’s focus on national security resources adds another layer of complexity. Law enforcement officials have described the decision to end Harris’s detail as consistent with past protocols, suggesting a lack of immediate threats.
The political landscape is charged, with public figures like LA Mayor Karen Bass condemning Trump’s actions as politically motivated. She stated that this endangers Harris and shows the pattern of retaliation from Trump against opponents.
In contrast, a Hollywood producer and significant Democratic donor criticized Trump’s approach, suggesting it won’t intimidate Harris.
As the Secret Service closes its operations at Harris’s home, the CHP is prepared to step in, providing some level of protection. Despite the diminished security, Harris’s past experiences with threats will undoubtedly shape the new reality she faces. Former Presidents maintain lifetime protection, a privilege Harris no longer enjoys as she embarks on her latest public journey.
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