Homeland Security Allocating Numerous Department Resources to Ensure Strengthened Security for National Special Security Event. On May 27, 2003, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced that the Democratic National Convention will be designated a National Special Security Event (NSSE) establishing the U.S. Secret Service, now part of the Department of Homeland Security, as the lead federal agency in charge of the design and implementation of the operational security plan. Over the course of the past year, numerous federal, state and local agencies have worked together to put in place an unprecedented level of security for the political convention. Working in partnership with state and local organizations, the Department of Homeland Security has invested substantial resources and numerous personnel to ensure a safe and secure event for the Boston community and all delegates attending the convention. Full Story