Former Secret Service agent Bill Gage discusses ways President Trump could refocus and energize the U.S. Secret Service without being political, including removing civil service protections, increasing standards, and re-assigning the investigative role.
Key Points
Removing civil service protections
Increasing standards for special agents
Re-assigning the investigative role
Pros
Removing civil service protections could allow for immediate action in cases of failure to maintain standards
Increasing standards for special agent assignments could improve overall competency and effectiveness
Re-assigning the investigative role could free up resources for better training and focus on protection
Cons
Removing civil service protections may lead to potential misuse of power
Increased standards may result in higher attrition rates and staffing challenges
Re-assigning the investigative role could impact the agency's ability to handle financial crimes effectively