Senate holds confirmation hearing for DNI nominee John Ratcliffe

May 5, 2020 Michael US 0

Rep. John Ratcliff R-Texas, testifies before a Senate Intelligence Committee nomination hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, May. 5, 2020. The panel is considering Ratcliffe’s nomination for director of national intelligence. (Gabriella Demczuk/The New York Times via AP, Pool)

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UPDATED 11:40 AM PT — Tuesday, May 5, 2020

Director of National Intelligence nominee John Ratcliffe recently outlined how he would approach the role if confirmed, while appearing before the Senate Intelligence Committee.

During his confirmation hearing Tuesday, Ratcliffe told lawmakers the intelligence he would provide to them as DNI will not be impacted or altered by outside influence.

The Texas representative also vowed his actions as national intelligence chief would always reflect his commitment to the constitution and rule of law.

#NEW: DNI Nominee Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-TX) on the role:

“Let me be very clear, regardless of what anyone wants our intelligence to reflect, the intelligence I will provide, if confirmed, will not be impacted or altered as a result of outside influence.”pic.twitter.com/BB8OP5pId8

— Jennifer Franco (@jennfranconews) May 5, 2020

Ratcliffe said the immediate focus of the Intelligence Community must be on the geopolitical and economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic and it’s origins. He also detailed how he views the position of DNI.

“I see the Director of National Intelligence as more than just a leader, a manager, an integrater,” he explained. “The DNI must at all times be an arrow catcher, a problem solver, an obstacle remover for the IC…addressing issues, resolving conflicts, and putting tools and resources in the right place at the right time.”

He continued saying, “the DNI must be the voice to advocate for and defend the interests of the IC and its people.” If confirmed, Ratcliffe would replace acting DNI Richard Grenell who is also the U.S. ambassador to Germany.