A Message from the USSSA Board on Media Commentary and Professional Responsibility

A Message from the USSSA Board of Directors

It is no surprise that the Secret Service remains in the news and under intense scrutiny whenever a critical event threatens a protectee. The recent attempt on the life of President Trump has again brought that attention to the forefront.

Following such incidents, media outlets often seek out retired and former Secret Service employees willing to provide commentary and opinions regarding the performance of agents and officers who are literally under fire.

Recently, some highly critical opinions have come from retired and former Secret Service employees. In many cases, these perspectives are grounded in dated experiences, secondhand knowledge, or, in the worst cases, personal grievances related to prior employment with the Service.

Unfortunately, some former USSS employees have launched personal attacks against Director Curran or accused the Secret Service of intentionally trying to get President Trump killed. Other comments have been overwhelmingly negative and have suggested that the agents and officers responsible for protecting President Trump are not competent.

Director Curran has done a commendable job providing facts, correcting misperceptions, and explaining the mission, the circumstances surrounding high-profile incidents, and the effectiveness that comes from lessons learned after every event.

The challenges faced by today’s Secret Service are vastly different and far more complex than those faced in previous decades. Technology and expanded First Amendment protections, particularly on social media, permit almost anything to be said in the form of a subtle threat, dramatically changing the threat environment.

The Board of the United States Secret Service Association asks members, retired and former USSS employees who are non-members, and others who may be asked to provide commentary, opinions, or critiques regarding the Secret Service mission to think carefully before accepting or soliciting such opportunities.

If you are contacted by print media or invited to appear on camera, podcasts, or radio broadcasts, we strongly encourage you to first contact the Office of Communications and Media Relations (CMR) to discuss the request. In some cases, it may be appropriate to refer the inquiry directly to CMR. At a minimum, you may receive guidance that helps ensure accurate and informed public statements.

The Association was not established to police the behavior of its members. However, we will not hesitate to address misperceptions and reckless commentary shared by members or former employees.

Your feedback is welcome, and we thank all of you for continuing to conduct yourselves professionally.

The Board of the United States Secret Service Association