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The Lawfare Podcast

Lawfare Archive: Carol Leonnig on the United States Secret Service and What to Do About It

Oct 20, 2024
Carol Leonnig, a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter at the Washington Post, dives deep into the challenges faced by the United States Secret Service. She reflects on its 'Zero Fail' motto while revealing significant operational gaps and past failures, including scandals and security breaches. Leonnig discusses potential reforms aimed at cultural transformation rather than mere financial fixes. Her insights illuminate the complex relationship between the Secret Service, the presidency, and the ethical dilemmas agents encounter in their protective roles.
52:56

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Quick takeaways

  • The United States Secret Service faces significant challenges in fulfilling its 'Zero Fail' mission due to historical gaps and insufficient resources.
  • High-profile incidents, including the Reagan assassination attempt, have prompted crucial changes in security protocols, yet outdated methods still persist.

Deep dives

The Role and Challenges of the Secret Service

The United States Secret Service is primarily tasked with the protection of the President, which is encapsulated in its motto of 'Zero Fail'. However, historical incidents reveal glaring issues within the agency, including organizational gaps and lapses in security due to inadequate personnel. For instance, during the Kennedy era, the service struggled with a lack of agents and resources, making effective protection difficult when the president traveled frequently. This situation highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing the Secret Service's extensive responsibilities against its limited resources and the critical need for reform.

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