John Ratcliffe Tests for CIA Director Nomination

During his Senate confirmation hearing, John Ratcliffe, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for CIA director, emphasized the need for the agency to enhance its capabilities in response to global threats, particularly from China and Russia. Ratcliffe, who previously served as director of national intelligence, stated that the CIA must better utilize technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing while also focusing on human intelligence. He reassured senators that he would not impose political litmus tests within the agency, addressing concerns about potential politicization of intelligence. Ratcliffe described China as the foremost geopolitical rival to the U.S. and asserted that he would prioritize the CIA's core mission of intelligence gathering. He expressed support for the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, emphasizing its importance despite acknowledging concerns about privacy violations. His nomination appears set for swift confirmation, with bipartisan support noted during the hearing.