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February 17, 2005
Statement on the Nomination of Ambassador John Negroponte as the Director of National Intelligence
By Senator Jay Rockefeller, Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence
The President’s nomination of Ambassador John Negroponte as the new Director of National Intelligence is a welcome one. While the announcement is overdue and the delay has hampered implementation of critical intelligence reforms, I think that Ambassador Negroponte is a very sound choice.
Ambassador Negroponte has served bravely and with distinction in Iraq and at the United Nations during a time of turmoil and uncertainty. He brings a record of proven leadership and strong management.
Ambassador Negroponte will need to immerse himself in the complex workings of the agencies that make up our Intelligence Community. In this regard, the nomination of General Mike Hayden, currently the Director of the National Security Agency, is also an excellent choice. Their combined experience and the good chemistry they have personally should help ensure their effectiveness. General Hayden’s detailed understanding of our intelligence capabilities and his commitment to reform will help the Ambassador as he forges new ground as the first DNI.
I hope and intend that the Intelligence Committee will move as quickly as possible on their nomination hearings so that we have the opportunity to probe further their experience and vision.
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