Biden asks CIA Director Burns to join Cabinet.
President Joe Biden Invites CIA Director William Burns to Join Cabinet
President Joe Biden made an exciting announcement on Friday, revealing that he has extended an invitation to Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns to join his esteemed Cabinet.
The role of the CIA director does not traditionally include an official Cabinet position. However, former President Donald Trump broke with convention in 2017 by elevating the CIA director to a Cabinet post. Upon assuming office, President Biden reversed this decision and instead elevated Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines to the Cabinet.
“Working in lockstep with Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines, Bill has harnessed intelligence to give our country a critical strategic advantage. Under his leadership, the CIA is delivering a clear-eyed, long-term approach to our nation’s top national security challenges — from tackling Russia’s brutal aggression against Ukraine, to managing responsible competition with the People’s Republic of China, to addressing the opportunities and risks of emerging technology,”
The president expressed his admiration for Burns’ work, stating, “Bill has always given me clear, straightforward analysis that prioritizes the safety and security of the American people, reflecting the integral role the CIA plays in our national security decision-making at this critical time.”
President Biden also highlighted a quote from Burns himself, emphasizing the importance of “good intelligence, delivered with honesty and integrity.” This quote served as part of the rationale behind the decision, with the president asserting that Burns has exemplified these qualities since day one.
“With quiet courage, deep humility, and extensive expertise, Bill has earned the respect of the brave women and men of the CIA,” Biden praised. “He leads with dignity and represents the very best of America, and I look forward to continuing to work with him in the years ahead.”
In a separate statement, Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines expressed her delight at the news, saying, “I am absolutely delighted to join President Biden in welcoming CIA Director Bill Burns to the Cabinet. Director Burns has dedicated his life to public service, and his rare combination of expertise, experiences, talent, and intelligence are exactly what the President needs in his senior-most advisors.”
Haines continued, “This nomination reflects the President’s reliance and confidence in Bill for his unique insights and advice, and I cannot imagine a better colleague, friend, and leader who is more deserving of this recognition.”
While the CIA director typically does not engage in diplomacy, Burns has played a crucial role as a top messenger for President Biden in matters concerning Russia and the war in Ukraine. In November 2021, he traveled to Moscow and delivered a warning to Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging him not to invade Ukraine. Unfortunately, Putin chose to ignore this warning.
Overall, President Biden’s decision to invite CIA Director William Burns to join his Cabinet demonstrates his commitment to assembling a team of exceptional individuals who will contribute to the safety and security of the American people.
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