Tue Nov 12 23:16:51 UTC 2024: ## Trump Picks Former DNI John Ratcliffe to Head CIA
**Washington, D.C. -** President-elect Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that he has selected former Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe to serve as the next director of the Central Intelligence Agency. Ratcliffe, a close ally of Trump, previously held the position of DNI during the latter part of Trump’s first term. He was confirmed in May 2020, but faced opposition from Senate Democrats during the process.
Ratcliffe’s appointment has been met with mixed reactions. While some praised his experience and loyalty to Trump, others expressed concerns about his history. Democrats and former intelligence officials previously accused Ratcliffe of improperly declassifying intelligence for political purposes, particularly to attack then-presidential candidate Joe Biden.
Further concerns emerged regarding Ratcliffe’s claims of significant counter-terrorism experience during his time as a federal prosecutor in Texas, which some news outlets have disputed.
The confirmation process for Ratcliffe’s new role as CIA Director is expected to begin shortly and will likely spark further debate about his qualifications and past actions.
First Piper 