Key Takeaways:
* Kash Patel and Cliff Sims, both linked to former US President Donald Trump, are vying for the CIA Deputy Director post.
* Patel favored declassifying all information concerning Russian interference in the 2016 elections.
* Both candidates’ involvement unsettles potential contenders, as Patel and Sims are interviewing candidates for the same position.
* Patel’s battle techniques and penchant for controversy, such as his proposal to jail journalists, have raised concern among colleagues.
* Neither candidate has experience working on domestic or global terrorism, unlike predecessors.
Clashing for High-Level National Security Role
Two prominent figures from President Donald Trump’s inner circle, Kash Patel and Cliff Sims, are competing for one of the most coveted posts in national security. The prize? The post of CIA Deputy Director. The pair are going toe to toe, creating ruffled feathers and unease among others vying for the same position.
Who are the Contenders?
Kash Patel, on one side, is known for being vocal about opening up classified information regarding the 2016 Russian election interference investigation. He believed this would put to light potential wrongdoings within intelligence agencies. Patel initially attracted President Trump’s attention by helping former Rep. Devin Nunes (R-CA), fight against investigator Robert Mueller’s Russian meddling probe.
The other top contender is Cliff Sims, Trump’s former deputy director of National Intelligence for Strategy and Communications. However, Sims may have some bridges to mend. After publishing a memoir in 2019 about his time with Trump, the former President was reportedly none too pleased.
A Controversial Tussle
Patel and Sims have been under scrutiny for allegedly undermining other potential contenders. Critics assert that they are leveraging their roles in the transition process to steer their chances. Patel’s penchant for controversy – including a proposition to jail journalists – is causing additional worry. Some fear he’s spreading damaging stories about Sims to bolster his odds.
In addition to being controversial, Patel and Sims face further criticism for their lack of experience. The current deputy, David S. Cohen, is recognized for his involvement in crafting Title III of the USA PATRIOT Act, dealing with money laundering. He also worked extensively in the Treasury Department, focused on terrorism and financial intelligence. Either Patel or Sims would step into this role, each lacking any experience in dealing with domestic or global terrorism.
The Final Decision
As this contentious race continues, many are eagerly anticipating who will emerge the winner. Adding to the suspense, Transition spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt, has provided very little information about the upcoming decision. According to her, the remaining decisions on appointments will be announced once they are made.
Conclusion
As Patel and Sims continue their fight for the influential position within the U.S. intelligence community, it will be interesting to see who emerges victorious. Being a key role, this decision will have significant weight on the direction of the nation’s security. Regardless of who gets the post, the journey to this point has highlighted the intense competition and drama that often accompanies high-level national security appointments.