- Thursday, October 2, 2014

President Obama is on the hunt for a new Secret Service director in the wake of Julia Pierson’s resignation — the latest in a string of unceremonious departures from his inner circle.

Mr. Obama’s casting calls for top talent haven’t always panned out in the eyes of the public.

Here’s a look at some of the more high-profile flameouts:

Eric Shinseki, Veterans Affairs secretary

Resigned in May 2014 amid jaw-dropping revelations that veterans died while waiting for treatment at VA hospitals.

Kathleen Sebelius, Health and Human Services secretary


SEE ALSO: Julia Pierson resigns as Secret Service director


“Obamacare” became a pejorative on her watch amid a disastrous rollout of the Affordable Care Act.

Hillary Clinton, secretary of state

The potential 2016 presidential contender quit early in Mr. Obama’s second term — right about when the Benghazi scandal started heating up.

Timothy Geithner, Treasury secretary

Criticized constantly by members of Congress before stepping down in January 2013, Mr. Geithner got off to a rocky start when it was disclosed he’d botched his personal income taxes during his confirmation hearings.

David Petraeus, CIA director

The Iraq War hero resigned in 2012 amid an extramarital affair.

Gen. Keith Alexander, NSA director

Edward Snowden’s shocking leak made the boss of the secretive agency a household name. Gen. Alexander retired in 2013.

Julia Pierson, Secret Service director

Mr. Obama’s hand-picked security chief quit under pressure from Congress after the embarrassing revelations of White House security breaches.

Eric Holder, attorney general

Facing contempt of Congress charges, Mr. Holder opted to announce his resignation last month. 

• Staff can be reached at 202-636-3000.

Copyright © 2024 The Washington Times, LLC. Click here for reprint permission.

Please read our comment policy before commenting.

Click to Read More and View Comments

Click to Hide