WASHINGTON, Sept 25 (Reuters) – The U.S. Secret Service (USSS) is investigating one of its agents following an alleged incident involving a staff member in the office of Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris, according to a statement released by her office on Wednesday.
In a separate statement, a USSS spokesperson confirmed that the agent in question has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation into “a misconduct allegation involving an employee.” However, the agency did not disclose further details about the nature of the incident.
Harris’ office emphasized its strict policies on such matters, stating that it maintains a “zero tolerance for sexual misconduct.” The statement clarified that senior officials were alerted by the Secret Service regarding an incident involving one of its agents and were informed that an investigation had been initiated.
Neither the Secret Service agent nor the Harris staffer involved have been publicly identified, and Harris’ office has indicated that it will not be providing additional information at this time.
Reports from Real Clear Politics allege that the Secret Service agent forced himself on a Harris staffer in a hotel room in Wisconsin while scouting potential campaign stops ahead of the 2024 election.
This investigation adds pressure to an already high-stakes political atmosphere. Vice President Harris is facing off against Republican former President Donald Trump in what is shaping up to be a tight race for the upcoming Nov. 5 U.S. elections. The allegations come at a critical moment for the Harris campaign, as public perception and security-related controversies can impact voter sentiment.
In recent weeks, the Secret Service has been under scrutiny following a July 13 assassination attempt on former President Trump during a rally in Pennsylvania. While Trump survived the attempt, a subsequent investigation into the event revealed lapses in the agency’s security protocols. The fallout led to the resignation of the agency’s former director, and the incident has since prompted an internal review of the agency’s operations.
As the investigation unfolds, both the Secret Service and the Harris campaign are navigating a delicate situation that could have broader implications for the upcoming election season.
