[Fox News] WASHINGTON – Secret Service agents assigned to protect four U.S. presidents at Tuesday's memorial service for Nelson Mandela are facing a potential clash of egos that could translate into a security nightmare.
Former Secret Service agent Dan Bongino, who protected Presidents George W. Bush and Obama, told FoxNews.com the real test at the South African memorial site will lie in how well the agents will be able to navigate an ego-heavy political minefield.
“The security part is easy,” Bongino said. “The politics of security is what makes it a nightmare. And the egos.”
“With a state funeral, you’re dealing with numerous heads of state and they all have egos,” he said. “In addition, you’re dealing with the tragedy of the situation. You can’t go in randomly shaking down mourners.”
Bongino, author of “Life Inside the Bubble: Why a Top-Ranked Secret Service Agent Walked Away from It All," adds,"every head of state wants his entire team in there with their weapons.”
Bongino is correct, it's a recipe for disaster. Little wonder Peres and Netanyahu have declined. |