Washington - Arab Today
The United States Senate confirmed Mike Pompeo to run the Central Intelligence Agency Monday night, giving President Donald Trump confirmation of his third appointee to lead the agency.
Pompeo, a Republican congressman was confirmed by a vote of 66 to 32 after Senate Democrats forced a three-day delay, arguing that the critical post deserved a thorough debate. "He's one of the most qualified people out there to serve in this role," said Senator James Lankford of Oklahoma state.
However, democratic senators disagreed. Three even held up Pompeo's confirmation vote Friday, angering Republicans, who said it was unprecedented and dangerous for the CIA to operate without a permanent director. The previous CIA director, John Brennan, resigned when Trump was sworn in last Friday, NBC news reported.
Pompeo's views on government surveillance and torture were cited by Democrats as reasons to oppose him, as they violate Americans values on personal privacy. "I believe from the bottom of my heart that we can [protect Americans] without invading the privacy rights of the American people," said Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, who voted against Pompeo.
The Senate conformation of Mike Pompeo to lead the Central Intelligent Agency came in the event of increased tension between the recently inaugurated president Donald Trump and the CIA.
Source: QNA