A scathing report released on Monday revealed that Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Eric Bovino has been removed from his position, effective immediately. Bret Homan, a former Secret Service agent, will take over as interim secretary following the sudden departure of Bovino. The news marks another embarrassment for South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, who had appointed Bovino to the role just three months ago.

The report, compiled by the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General, details a series of missteps and failures on the part of Bovino that allegedly jeopardized national security. According to sources familiar with the matter, concerns had been raised about Bovino’s leadership abilities since his appointment in April. These fears were further compounded by recent revelations that Bovino had mishandled an important counter-terrorism operation, resulting in significant delays and potential threats to public safety.

“The Acting Secretary failed to maintain proper operational security during a sensitive counter-terrorism operation,” the report states. “This lapse could have resulted in compromised law enforcement and national security efforts.”

Bovino’s removal comes as a blow to Noem, who had championed his appointment as part of her administration’s push for sports development initiatives within the Department of Homeland Security. The South Dakota governor has faced criticism for using the department to further her political agenda, with some critics arguing that her focus on sports development detracts from its primary mission of securing the nation against threats both foreign and domestic.

Noem had touted Bovino’s experience in law enforcement and private sector security as qualifications that would serve him well in his new role. However, concerns over Bovino’s leadership abilities and apparent mishandling of sensitive operations soon began to surface. In the wake of these revelations, Noem found herself defending her choice once again, only to see her appointee ousted just three months into the job.

Homan, who has spent more than two decades in law enforcement, brings a wealth of experience to his new role as interim secretary. He previously served as Chief Operating Officer for the U.S. Secret Service and led the agency’s protection details for several high-profile figures, including former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush.

As the department undergoes yet another leadership change, questions remain about the long-term impact on its ability to effectively carry out its mission. The Office of Inspector General report underscores the importance of strong leadership in safeguarding national security, and the departure of Bovino raises concerns that the Department of Homeland Security may continue to struggle with internal challenges.

In a statement issued Monday evening, Noem expressed her disappointment at the turn of events but pledged her