Staff Reports
The House Oversight Committee is launching an investigation into the Secret Service following reports that an agent assigned to Vice President Kamala Harris physically assaulted her commanding officer. Chairman James Comer (R-KY) has requested a briefing from Secret Service officials to review their hiring and training procedures, assessing any potential national security risks. This investigation is prompted by an incident at Joint Base Andrews where the agent allegedly attacked her superior and other agents while on duty. Concerns have been raised about the agent's hiring and screening process, especially considering possible past incidents being overlooked due to staff shortages and efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.
House Oversight Committee opens investigation into ‘inadequate’ training for Secret Service agents https://t.co/WE6ottquTO
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) May 31, 2024
The Secret Service subsequently removed the agent from her position, noting that she had begun exhibiting alarming behavior that worried her colleagues, and classified the situation as a “medical matter.” In response to a petition within the Secret Service, the House Oversight Committee is seeking to understand the agency’s reaction to the incident and how it intends to address any potential vulnerabilities. Comer has set a deadline of June 13 for the Secret Service to provide the requested briefing. The committee’s request follows internal concerns within the Secret Service, which have prompted a call for a congressional inquiry into the incident and related issues, highlighting worries about the adequacy of training within the agency.
