Secret Service's second-ranking official Ronald Rowe becomes acting director after Cheatle resigns

The U.S. Secret Service's second-ranking official Ronald Rowe takes over as acting director, said the Department of Homeland Security on Tuesday following the resignation of Kimberly Cheatle.

Rowe was appointed deputy director in April 2023.

He has has worked with the agency for 24-years.

Cheatle resigned after facing strong criticism from lawmakers over the assassination attempt on former President Trump.

“The Secret Service is the greatest protective service in the world, with one of the most difficult and solemn missions in government," said Alejandro Mayorkas, secretary of the Department of Homeland Security in a statement. "I have the utmost confidence in Deputy Director Rowe and the men and women of the Secret Service, who put their lives on the line every day and deserve our full support.”