Statement on Senate Confirmation of John O. Brennan as Director of Central Intelligence

With the bipartisan confirmation of John Brennan as Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, the Senate has recognized in John the qualities I value so much: his determination to keep America safe, his commitment to working with Congress, his ability to build relationships with foreign partners, and his fidelity to the values that define us as a nation.

With John's 25 years of experience at the Agency, our extraordinary men and women of the CIA will be led by one of their own. I am especially appreciative to Michael Morell for being such an outstanding Acting Director and for agreeing to continue his service as Deputy Director.

Timely, accurate intelligence is absolutely critical to disrupting terrorist attacks, dismantling Al Qaida and its affiliates, and meeting the broad array of security challenges that we face as a nation. John's leadership and our dedicated intelligence professionals will be essential in these efforts. I am deeply grateful to John and his family for their continued service to our Nation.