Donald Trump has revoked Secret Service protection for former Vice President Kamala Harris, reversing an extension that Joe Biden had granted beyond the standard six-month period. The move takes effect on September 1, marking the latest example of what many view as the creeping extension of the President's power to all institutions.
The decision follows a pattern where those who tell Trump what he wants to hear are welcomed in, while those who dare to speak out face public humiliation or punishment. Harris's standard protection period originally ended on July 21, with Biden's extension providing additional months of security coverage.
Broader institutional concerns
The Harris protection revocation comes amid other controversial moves, including mass deportations that have dominated what should have been a quiet summer. According to The i, Trump has also revoked protection for multiple former officials including John Bolton, Mike Pompeo, and Anthony Fauci.
The revocation was formalised through a memorandum to the Secretary of Homeland Security. The timing is particularly significant as Harris serves as the 2024 Democratic presidential nominee, making her a prominent political rival to Trump.
Security and political implications
The i reports that Harris faced particular security concerns during her vice presidency as the first Black female to hold the office. The decision has raised questions about potential political motivations behind the timing.
After eight months of Trump's return to office, observers are asking a fundamental question: is the republic in peril? The pattern of institutional changes and the targeting of former officials who have been critical suggests a systematic approach to consolidating presidential power.
Sources used: "Channel4", "GBNews", "The i", "Sky News", "The Guardian" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
