Acting Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe Jr. expressed worry over the morale of his overworked agents following a critical, independent review of the agency's security failures.
In an exclusive interview with NBC News, Rowe addressed concerns raised by a bipartisan panel that called for "fundamental reform" within the Secret Service.
Rowe acknowledged the immense pressure on his agents, stating, "We are redlining our people. We are asking them to do extraordinary things right now."
The independent review, conducted by four former senior law enforcement and government officials, identified "numerous mistakes" and "deep" systemic flaws that enabled the July 13 assassination attempt at Trump's campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
The bipartisan panel's report was unequivocal in its assessment, stating that the Secret Service "does not perform at the elite levels needed to discharge its critical mission." This stark evaluation has prompted calls for significant reforms within the agency.
Among the panel's recommendations are the introduction of a new leadership team, mandated additional training, enhanced overhead surveillance for outdoor events, and the establishment of a central communications hub for large-scale gatherings. These suggestions aim to address the vulnerabilities exposed by the July incident.
The report's dire warning that another assassination attempt "can and will happen again" without substantial changes has put additional pressure on the Secret Service to act swiftly and decisively.
Rowe, who assumed the role of acting director in July following Kimberly Cheatle's resignation, detailed the agency's efforts to address its shortcomings. He revealed that Trump's protective detail has been elevated to the highest level, comparable to that of a sitting president.
Rowe also emphasized the agency's commitment to transparency, noting increased cooperation with Congress through the provision of minimally redacted documents. Additionally, he highlighted investments in new technologies aimed at enhancing the Secret Service's capabilities.
In response to concerns about agent morale and staffing, Rowe reported a positive trend in recruitment. He mentioned that 400 individuals are currently at various stages of training to join the Secret Service, indicating a potential boost to the agency's workforce.
However, the challenges facing the Secret Service extend beyond mere numbers. Rowe's acknowledgment of "demoralized" agents working long hours underscores the need for comprehensive reforms that address not only operational procedures but also the well-being of personnel.
The agency is developing a "comprehensive" plan focused on increasing and retaining personnel, modernizing technology, and implementing a robust training program. This multifaceted approach aims to address the systemic issues identified in the independent review.
A report highlighting the Secret Service's security failures has led to a reassessment of the agency's methods. Acting Director Rowe acknowledged the issues and pledged to implement reforms, which are essential to restoring trust in the agency. Improving training, technology, and agent retention will be vital in enhancing the Secret Service’s capabilities.
