OAN Staff Brooke Mallory
2:38 PM – Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Unbeknownst to many Golden State residents, California taxpayers are reportedly covering the costs of a multi-city and international security detail for former Vice President Kamala Harris as she promotes her memoir, “107 Days.”
Since September 2025 — following the revocation of her extended federal Secret Service protection — dozens of California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers have accompanied Harris on nationwide tour stops and international travel, including visits to London and Toronto, with expenses like travel, overtime, and logistics funded by California taxpayers.
This arrangement, coordinated with input from Governor Gavin Newsom’s (D-Calif.) office and local authorities, has since drawn scrutiny amid the state’s budget challenges and questions about precedent for providing such extensive state resources to a private citizen during a commercial book tour.
In late August 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive memorandum revoking the Secret Service protection for Harris. While standard law provides six months of protection, which ended in July 2025, former President Joe Biden had extended her detail via executive order.
Trump rescinded this extension effective September 1, 2025. However, following the federal withdrawal, Newsom and Los Angeles Democrat Mayor Karen Bass coordinated to provide security through the CHP and the LAPD.
Since these are state and local officers, the costs for salaries, travel, and overtime are being underwritten by California taxpayers.
Meanwhile, the discovery has since sparked a heated debate over the use of state resources for a private citizen’s “commercial venture” during a period of significant state budget deficits.
Security Shift: Federal to State
Under the Former Vice President Protection Act of 2008, vice presidents typically receive six months of Secret Service protection after leaving office. Harris’ current security detail includes:
- California Highway Patrol: Dozens of officers traveling domestically and internationally.
- LAPD Metropolitan Division: Specialized tactical units providing localized support near her residence.
Critics on both sides of the political aisle argue that the state is setting a costly precedent. Historically, former California officials — including governors — do not receive lifetime or extended security details of this scale once they transition to private life.
“I think folks have to examine the precedent being set,” said Chris Micheli, a California lobbyist. “How much is it costing taxpayers? They should know.”
Harris’ memoir chronicles her failed 2024 presidential campaign. As of early 2026, it spent 15 consecutive weeks on the New York Times Hardcover Nonfiction best-seller list. However, Harris’ spokesperson has refrained from explaining whether any proceeds from her book or the speaking tour will be used to reimburse the state for the travel, lodging, and overtime costs of the CHP officers.
The timing of the expenditure is also particularly sensitive as California grapples with back-to-back budget shortfalls. While the exact figure is classified for “security reasons,” similar dignitary details for high-profile figures can cost millions of dollars annually.
Potential 2028 Run
Democrat supporters of the arrangement argue that as a former vice president and a possible 2028 presidential contender, Harris remains a “high-value target” in a polarized political climate. They argue that California has a responsibility to ensure her safety, regardless of the federal government’s stance.
Comparing Post-Office Protection
| Official | Primary security provider | Typical duration |
| Former presidents | U.S. Secret Service | Lifetime |
| Former vice presidents | U.S. Secret Service | 6 Months (standard) |
| Kamala Harris | CHP and LAPD | Indefinite – state-funded |
| Former California governors | None / Private | None |
Neither Newsom’s office nor the CHP has released a specific end date for Harris’ current security arrangement.
Stay informed! Receive breaking news blasts directly to your inbox for free. Subscribe here. https://www.oann.com/alerts
What do YOU think? Click here to jump to the comments!
Sponsored Content Below
