The Acting Secret Service Director, Ronald Rowe, recently informed the Senate about the agency's plans to increase its force by 200 agents by the end of the year. This hiring surge is partly attributed to the upcoming 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
During a discussion with Senate Judiciary Chairman Dick Durbin, Rowe addressed concerns about the agency's loss of 365 agents over the past decade. He emphasized that this increase in staffing levels marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time in several years that such hiring gains have been made. Rowe clarified that the boost in recruitment is not a result of lowered standards but rather due to improvements in the hiring process that have led to increased efficiencies.
Rowe highlighted that despite the rise in hiring, the agency maintains stringent selection criteria, with only 2% of applicants successfully navigating through the rigorous hiring process. This commitment to maintaining high standards ensures that the Secret Service continues to attract top-tier talent to fulfill its crucial protective duties.
