Trump ends security protection for former vice-president Harris, senior White House official says
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox
Former vice-president Kamala Harris lost the 2024 presidential election but has not ruled out a possible presidential bid in 2028.
PHOTO: REUTERS
WASHINGTON - US President Donald Trump has cancelled Secret Service protection for former vice-president and 2024 Democratic rival Kamala Harris, a senior White House official said on Aug 29.
Former vice-presidents typically receive six months of Secret Service protection after they leave office.
Ms Harris’ protection was extended to one year until January 2026 by then President Joe Biden before he left office in January 2024, the official said.
Ms Harris in September is to embark on a 15-city book tour for her memoir
She was the Democratic nominee for 107 days after Mr Biden withdrew from the race in the weeks following a disastrous debate against Mr Trump. Mr Trump went on to defeat Ms Harris
The letter to Ms Harris, dated Aug 28, says the termination of additional security is effective from Sept 1, the official said.
Ms Kirsten Allen, a senior adviser to Ms Harris, said in response to the move: “The Vice-President is grateful to the United States Secret Service for their professionalism, dedication and unwavering commitment to safety,” she said.
Ms Harris lost the 2024 presidential election to Mr Trump, but has not ruled out a possible presidential bid in 2028.
She announced on July 30 that she would not run for governor of California
Mr Trump has also ended federal security protection for others, including those who have criticised him, such as former national security adviser John Bolton.
In March, he ended protection for Mr Biden’s children Hunter and Ashley Biden. REUTERS
