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President Obama today announced the historic appointment of Julia Pierson as the first-ever woman to serve as director of the Secret Service, reports Reuters.
Pierson is herself a veteran secret service agent, and previously served as chief of staff for the agency that protects the President.
The Washington Post reports that Pierson's appointment does not require Senate confirmation, and would be announced this afternoon. Pierson's appointment comes on the heels of the retirement of former director Mark Sullivan after the agency became embroiled in an international scandal involving agents bringing prostitutes back to their hotel rooms while in Columbia preparing for a presidential summit.
Sullivan spoke highly of his successor, according to the Post. "I have known and worked with Julie for close to 30 years," Sullivan said in a statement. "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."
