Trump Taps Ratcliffe for CIA Director Role: A Controversial Ally Returns

Donald Trump has nominated John Ratcliffe, his former director of National Intelligence, as CIA director. Ratcliffe is noted for his alignment with Trump's policies and critiques of Biden's approach to the Middle East and China. Despite previous concerns over his experience, Senate approval is anticipated.

In a significant move, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has nominated John Ratcliffe, a staunch ally and former director of National Intelligence, as the director of the Central Intelligence Agency. Ratcliffe served as the national intelligence director from May 2020 until the end of Trump's term in January 2021 and is expected to bring his robust national security stance to the CIA.

During his tenure, Ratcliffe has been outspoken on global issues, including Iran's military activities and North Korea's nuclear weapons program. His previous role as DNI saw criticism from Democratic senators over perceived partisanship, though with a Republican-led Senate anticipated next year, his confirmation this time is likely assured.

Ratcliffe has also voiced strong critiques of President Biden's policies, especially concerning the Middle East and China's global ambitions, highlighting his continuing influence on national security discourse as he steps into this new role.

(With inputs from agencies.)