Kamala Harris Receives LAPD Security Detail After Secret Service Protection Removal
Kamala Harris has a new security detail provided by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) after President Trump removed her Secret Service protection. LAPD's elite Metro Division officers have been reassigned to guard Harris, with at least 14 officers pulled from their regular duties to provide security for the former vice president. The officers were spotted outside Harris' home in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, where she resides with her husband, Doug Emhoff.
President Trump's decision to withdraw Harris' Secret Service detail was met with criticism from local leaders, including Democratic LA Mayor Karen Bass, who called it an act of revenge. Former vice presidents typically receive six months of protection after leaving office, but President Biden extended Harris' security detail for a full year before he left office. The reasons for this extension are unclear.
In response to the removal of her Secret Service protection, Harris was offered security from the California Highway Patrol (CHP), pending approval from Governor Gavin Newsom. The use of CHP officers for dignitary protection would require the governor's authorization. Newsom's spokesperson emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of public officials regardless of political motivations.
President Trump has previously cut off taxpayer-funded security for other public figures, including members of the Biden family, Dr. Anthony Fauci, and former government officials like John Bolton and Mike Pompeo. The LAPD and Harris' office did not provide comments on the security arrangements at the time of publication.
In conclusion, Kamala Harris now has LAPD officers providing security for her after President Trump removed her Secret Service protection. The decision to withdraw her detail has sparked criticism from local leaders, who view it as a retaliatory move. Despite the offer of protection from the California Highway Patrol, the safety of public officials remains a priority amid political changes.