Washington, August 30(HS): President Donald Trump has terminated former Vice-President Kamala Harris’ Secret Service security detail, seven months after she left office following her unsuccessful presidential bid. By law, former vice-presidents and their families receive six months of protection after leaving office, with the Cabinet Secretary empowered to extend coverage temporarily. Former President Joe Biden reportedly extended Harris' protection to one year before leaving office.

The move has ignited controversy, with California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass condemning the decision as politically motivated. While recent threat assessments reportedly found no immediate dangers justifying further protection, Harris’ team had expressed concerns over threats linked to her historic role as the first female and person of colour vice-president and presidential candidate.

Security experts cite practical considerations, noting the immense logistical and personnel demands of protecting high-profile figures during public tours and events. Trump’s revocation follows similar cuts for other political figures, provoking accusations of retributive politics, though some officials defend the move as focusing limited Secret Service resources on urgent threats.

Unlike vice-presidents, former US presidents receive lifelong security protections, a policy reinstated in 2013 after a brief cost-limiting hiatus. Harris’ impending multi-city book tour underscores potential challenges posed by the withdrawal of her official security detail.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar