A US Secret Service employee was removed from duty over allegations of leaking sensitive information about Vice President JD Vance's travel schedule. CNN, citing anonymous sources, reported that an internal investigation was launched and the employee was placed on administrative leave.
The leaked information allegedly includes the protection team's dissatisfaction with the vice president's frequent and personal travel requests. Agents are said to have been forced to cancel their leave and prepare emergency security plans due to last-minute schedule changes.
MS Now had previously reported that the Secret Service was uncomfortable with Vance frequently requesting military helicopters for his family. It was claimed that agents were 'fed up' with these requests, which impose additional costs on taxpayers and increase the operational burden.
According to Pentagon budget data for 2022, the hourly operating cost of a military helicopter ranges from $16,000 to $24,600. CNN reported that the leak drew the attention of Secret Service, FBI, and White House officials, who expressed concern over operational details appearing in the press.
Officials identified the person suspected of leaking the information, and the employee was placed on administrative leave. The investigation is ongoing.