Senate Confirms John Ratcliffe as CIA Director in 74-25 Vote

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate confirmed John Ratcliffe as the new director of the Central Intelligence Agency on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, in a 74-25 vote. Ratcliffe, a former congressman and President Donald Trump’s Director of National Intelligence during his first term, was sworn in by Vice President JD Vance in a ceremony at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on the White House campus.

Ratcliffe, a Texas Republican, becomes the second member of Trump’s Cabinet to be confirmed in his second term. His confirmation followed a contentious hearing before the Senate Intelligence Committee, where he emphasized the need for the CIA to modernize its use of technology, including artificial intelligence and quantum computing, while balancing national security with civil liberties.

“We’re not where we’re supposed to be,” Ratcliffe told the committee during his confirmation hearing. He pledged to prioritize countering threats from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, as well as addressing challenges posed by drug cartels, hacking groups, and terrorist organizations.

Ratcliffe’s confirmation was met with mixed reactions. Republicans praised his experience and loyalty to Trump, while some Democrats expressed concerns about his ability to lead the agency impartially. “While I respect his service, I have serious reservations about his independence,” said one Democratic senator who voted against the nomination.

As Director of National Intelligence, Ratcliffe oversaw more than a dozen spy agencies and was known for his staunch defense of Trump during the president’s first impeachment. He also clashed with Democrats over his handling of intelligence, including allegations that he politicized sensitive information.

Ratcliffe’s confirmation marks a significant moment for the CIA, which has faced criticism from Trump and other Republicans for its focus on issues like climate change and workforce diversity. Ratcliffe has vowed to refocus the agency on its core mission of national security.

The CIA director position was elevated to Cabinet level under President Joe Biden, a status that Trump’s administration has maintained. Ratcliffe succeeds William Burns, who served under Biden.

Ratcliffe’s confirmation comes as Trump’s second-term national security team takes shape. Tulsi Gabbard, Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence, is scheduled to appear before the Senate Intelligence Committee on Jan. 30, though her confirmation is expected to face bipartisan scrutiny.