WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement after President Trump announced Ret. Vice Adm. Joseph Maguire, Director of the National Counterterrorism Center, will serve as the Acting Director of National Intelligence, effective August 15:

“When I supported Admiral Maguire’s previous nomination, I made it clear I expected him to empower the intelligence professionals he led to do their important work free from political interference. Given the circumstances of his appointment as Acting DNI, it is more important than ever that Admiral Maguire stands by that commitment to speak truth to power. His success or failure in this position will be judged by the quality of work produced by the intelligence community, not by how those intelligence products make the President feel.

“After leading the men and women in the Navy and serving our country faithfully, the burden shouldered by this capable public servant is now much higher with a White House that continuously breaks longstanding norms that have governed the intelligence community. Shading intelligence to fit political views ultimately threatens the safety and effectiveness of America’s dedicated intelligence professionals and makes our country less safe. While Admiral Maguire demonstrates a continued willingness to serve our nation, it does not replace the President’s responsibility to nominate a permanent Director during this critical time for our country.”