SECRET SERVICE News:

U.S. Secret Service Director Julia Pierson

Julia Pierson was sworn in as U.S. Secret Service Director Wednesday, March 27, in a ceremony in the Oval Office.

President Obama watched as Vice President Joe Biden administered the oath to the highly respected veteran of the Secret Service and praised her dedication, professionalism and commitment to her work:

“I have to say that Julia’s reputation within the Service is extraordinary,” President Obama said following the ceremony. “She’s come up through the ranks. She’s done just about every job there is to do at the Secret Service.”

Pierson, 53, does not need Senate confirmation for the post.

The Secret Service’s principal responsibilities are protecting the president and investigating counterfeiting and fraud.

Obama’s selection of Pierson comes after a difficult year for the service. Outgoing Secret Service Director Mark Sullivan announced his retirement last month, nine months after apologizing for a scandal exposed when agents protecting the president during an overseas trip last year brought prostitutes back to their hotel room.

Sullivan said in a statement regarding Pierson’s appointment, “I have known and worked with Julie for close to 30 years. She was an excellent Assistant Director and Chief of Staff, demonstrating sound judgment, leadership, character, and commitment to our Country, the men and women of the U.S. Secret Service and those we serve and protect. This is a historic and exciting time for the Secret Service and I know Julie will do an outstanding job.”

Julia Pierson was sworn in as U.S. Secret Service Director Wednesday, March 27, in a ceremony in the Oval Office.

President Obama watched as Vice President Joe Biden administered the oath to the highly respected veteran of the Secret Service and praised her dedication, professionalism and commitment to her work:

“I have to say that Julia’s reputation within the Service is extraordinary,” President Obama said following the ceremony. “She’s come up through the ranks. She’s done just about every job there is to do at the Secret Service.”

Pierson, 53, does not need Senate confirmation for the post.

The Secret Service’s principal responsibilities are protecting the president and investigating counterfeiting and fraud.

Obama’s selection of Pierson comes after a difficult year for the service. Outgoing Secret Service Director Mark Sullivan announced his retirement last month, nine months after apologizing for a scandal exposed when agents protecting the president during an overseas trip last year brought prostitutes back to their hotel room.

Sullivan said in a statement regarding Pierson’s appointment, “I have known and worked with Julie for close to 30 years. She was an excellent Assistant Director and Chief of Staff, demonstrating sound judgment, leadership, character, and commitment to our Country, the men and women of the U.S. Secret Service and those we serve and protect. This is a historic and exciting time for the Secret Service and I know Julie will do an outstanding job.”