Ronald L. Rowe, Jr. becomes acting Secret Service director after Cheatle's resignation

Ronald L. Rowe, Jr. has been appointed the acting Secret Service director on Tuesday following the resignation of Kimberly Cheatle. 

“Deputy Director Rowe has been Deputy Director of Secret Service since April 2023. A 24-year veteran of the Secret Service, he previously served as the agency’s Assistant Director for the Office of Intergovernmental and Legislative Affairs, Deputy Assistant Director for the Office of Protective Operations, and in other leadership positions," Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas said in a statement announcing the appointment. 

“I appreciate his willingness to lead the Secret Service at this incredibly challenging moment, as the agency works to get to the bottom of exactly what happened on July 13 and cooperate with ongoing investigations and Congressional oversight,” Mayorkas added. “At the same time, the Secret Service must effectively carry on its expansive mission that includes providing 24/7 protection for national leaders and visiting dignitaries and securing events of national significance in this dynamic and heightened threat environment.”