Joseph clancy secret service scandal women

Julia Pierson has resigned as director of the Secret Service, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson said in a Wednesday statement.

In the statement, Johnson said he would appoint Joseph Clancy as interim acting director.

During a White House briefing, Press Secretary Josh Earnest said President Barack Obama had called Pierson to "express his appreciation for her service to the agency and the country."

"The president concluded that new leadership of that agency was required,” Earnest said.

In an interview with Bloomberg News following her resignation, Pierson described the decision as "painful."

“I think it’s in the best interest of the Secret Service and the American public if I step down,” Pierson said.

“Congress has lost confidence in my ability to run the agency.

Secret Service Chief 'Frustrated' by Latest Incident ...

The media has made it clear that this is what they expected. ... It’s painful to leave as the agency is reeling from a significant security breach."

Pierson came under fire after a number of Secret Service: DUI agents make 4 scandals in 3 years - CNN GEQOV