William Webster, the only individual to have simultaneously led both the CIA and FBI, has voiced strong opposition to President-elect Donald Trump’s picks for some of the country’s highest intelligence positions, describing them as woefully unqualified. The 100-year-old former director sent a letter to the Senate outlining his grave concerns about Kash Patel and Tulsi Gabbard, both of whom are set to serve pivotal roles within the U.S. intelligence and law enforcement community.
Webster, who served as director of the FBI from 1978 to 1987 and as director of the CIA from 1987 to 1991, addressed the Senate during its evaluation of Trump’s nominees, urging them to prioritize nonpartisan leadership free from political influence. Patel, nominated to lead the FBI, and Gabbard, tapped for the role of director of national intelligence (DNI), both came under Webster’s scrutiny as he assessed their qualifications.
“The safety of the American people—and your own families—depends on it,” Webster stated, urging senators to evaluate the leadership qualities necessary for these demanding positions. His letter pointed out Patel’s troubling allegiance to Trump, which he believes compromises his integrity and impartiality. “While Mr. Patel’s intelligence and patriotism are commendable, his close political alignment with President Trump raises serious concerns about impartiality and integrity,” Webster penned.
Webster criticized Patel for his record of loyalty to Trump, asserting, “His record of executing the president’s directives suggest loyalty to individuals rather than the rule of law—a dangerous precedent for an agency tasked with impartial enforcement of justice.” This is particularly alarming, Webster indicated, as the FBI must remain independent and impartial, adhering strictly to the law without succumbing to personal allegiances.
The ex-CIA chief also warned senators about Gabbard's qualifications, stating she possesses “a substantial lack of intelligence experience.” He emphasized the need for seasoned expertise to effectively manage the multifaceted challenges posed by global threats. “Effective management of our intelligence community requires unparalleled expertise to navigate the complex global threats and to maintain the trust of allied nations,” he asserted. “Without trust, our ability to safeguard sensitive secrets and collaborate internationally is severely diminished.”
Critics of Gabbard have pointed to her previous cozying up to contentious figures such as Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, whose regime has been accused of atrocities against its own people. Webster echoed these concerns, stating, “This is no time in world history for a novice in the field to learn this role.” Gabbard's past remarks and positions related to Russia's actions have also garnered attention, with some labeling her as sympathetic to its narrative.
The Trump transition team quickly retaliated against Webster’s observations, defending Patel and Gabbard as capable leaders suited for their prospective roles. Alex Pfeiffer, a spokesperson for the team, remarked, “Kash Patel is loyal to the Constitution.” He also highlighted Patel's experience serving under both Obama and Trump, framing him as bringing valuable insight to the position.
Alexa Henning, another transition official, countered Webster’s critiques of Gabbard, emphasizing her military service and experience. “Lt. Col. Gabbard is an active member of the Army and has served for over two decades,” she stated, arguing Gabbard’s military background equips her to handle U.S. intelligence matters responsibly.
Webster's remarkable career reflects his long-standing commitment to upholding the principles of integrity and impartiality within the intelligence community. He was appointed to the FBI by President Jimmy Carter and served under Presidents Reagan and George H.W. Bush, earning respect from both sides of the political aisle for his ability to navigate complex political landscapes.
With current tensions surrounding national security and global relations, Webster’s call for experienced leadership within Trump’s new administration resonates with concerns of many within the intelligence community. His letter indicates the importance of the Senate’s role not just as evaluators of nominees but as protectors of institutional integrity against potential political bias.
Webster concluded his letter with a clarion call to the Senate, urging them to avoid decisions based on loyalty to individuals and instead focus on the preservation of law and justice: “I urge you to weigh the importance of nonpartisan leadership and seasoned experience.” The 100-year-old’s comments highlight the rising skepticism concerning the direction of intelligence operations under the forthcoming administration.
