After Ratcliffe Steps Aside, Trump Names Joseph Maguire National Intelligence Director

After a short-lived ‘scandal‘ causing Congressman John Ratcliffe (R) from Texas’ 4th district to have to step aside from assuming the helm as Director of National Intelligence, President Trump has appointed Joseph Maguire to take the reigns. This all comes as Dan Coats is stepping down.

Maguire is the current Director of the National Counterterrorism Center. He is also a highly distinguished Retired U.S. Navy Vice Admiral.

From navy.mil:

Maguire has had the honor of serving as commanding officer, SEAL Team 2 and commanding officer at Naval Special Warfare Center. He was the flag lieutenant to Commander Amphibious Forces 7th Fleet and in the Bureau of Naval Personnel, Washington, where he was Naval Special Warfare’s assignment officer and community manager. 

This comes amidst a broader shakeup in the top ranks of U.S. national intelligence, according to NPR.

From NPR:

Trump made the announcement close on the heels of a tweet disclosing the resignation of the current deputy director of national intelligence, Sue Gordon. Her resignation takes effect on August 15, the same day as that of outgoing Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats, which had already been announced.

The director of national intelligence oversees the country’s civilian and military intelligence.

Trump tweeted his announcement and congrats as can be seen below.

SEE TWEET FROM @realDonaldTrump BELOW:

….career in the military, retiring from the U.S. Navy in 2010. He commanded at every level, including the Naval Special Warfare Command. He has also served as a National Security Fellow at Harvard University. I have no doubt he will do a great job!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 8, 2019