The U.S. Senate confirmed John Ratcliffe as the new CIA director on Thursday. The vote was 74-25, marking a major win for former President Trump’s administration. Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman, previously served as Trump’s national intelligence director during the last eight months of his first term.
Strong senate support
Twenty-one Democrats joined Republicans in backing Ratcliffe. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer opposed him, though not for political differences. Schumer expressed concerns over Ratcliffe’s ability to resist pressure from Trump and his allies. “Mr. Ratcliffe must make decisions based on intelligence, not loyalty,” Schumer argued.
Ratcliffe, after the vote, was sworn in by Vice President JD Vance. The CIA confirmed the ceremony in a statement later that evening.
Fast-tracking hits a snag
Republican leaders struggled to fast-track Ratcliffe’s nomination. Procedural hurdles delayed the process, though Senate Majority Leader John Thune vowed to push Trump’s picks through.
At his confirmation hearing, Ratcliffe promised to keep politics out of the CIA. He assured senators he wouldn’t use loyalty tests when hiring or firing personnel. However, some Democrats remain skeptical.
Back in May 2020, Ratcliffe faced intense scrutiny when he was narrowly confirmed as Trump’s national intelligence director. Concerns over his qualifications and allegations of résumé exaggerations led to a tight 49-44 vote.
Trump’s cabinet under pressure
Ratcliffe’s confirmation follows another big win for Trump’s team. On Monday, the Senate unanimously approved Marco Rubio as secretary of state just hours after Trump’s inauguration.
But not all of Trump’s nominees are cruising through. Defense secretary pick Pete Hegseth and homeland security nominee Kristi Noem are next in line. Treasury secretary nominee Scott Bessent will also face a vote soon.
Democrats slam delay tactics
Thune has accused Democrats of dragging their feet. “If Democrats want to spend nights and weekends voting on uncontroversial nominees, so be it,” he said. He threatened to extend Senate sessions to ensure confirmations.
As Trump’s nominees await their turn, the pressure is on. Any one senator can slow the process, but only 51 votes are needed for confirmation. With Vice President JD Vance holding the tie-breaking vote, Republicans hold the advantage.
For now, Ratcliffe steps into his new role with promises of impartiality. The CIA awaits his leadership as political tensions continue to simmer.
