Mike Pompeo Takes Helm as Director of the Central Intelligence Agency

24 January 2017

LANGLEY, VA – Mike Pompeo was sworn in last night as Director of the Central Intelligence Agency by Vice President Mike Pence in a ceremony at the White House. Pompeo, who most recently served as the Congressman representing the 4^th District of Kansas, is the twenty-second Director of CIA.

Director Pompeo began his first day at Langley by convening the CIA leadership team, receiving substantive briefings, and engaging the workforce. Director Pompeo sent the following message to all CIA employees this morning:

Message from Director Pompeo to CIA Workforce

“Last night, I had the honor of a lifetime by being sworn in as the 22nd Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. I come to the Agency as a longtime admirer, well acquainted with your skill, courage, and dedication during my years on the House Intelligence Committee. I am humbled by having been entrusted with this post, and I feel deeply privileged to be given the opportunity to serve with you. Likewise, I am mindful that I follow the directorship of a distinguished CIA veteran, consummate intelligence officer, and devoted patriot.

“Over the past few weeks, I have had the opportunity to speak with nearly every living former Director. To a person, they emphasized one point above all others: the extraordinary talent of the CIA workforce—something I appreciate from firsthand knowledge. They all said it was the best job they had ever had. I would be remiss if I did not mention former director and President George H.W. Bush and his wife, Barbara, who are both in our prayers today. President Bush told me that being Director was his second favorite job, but I did not really believe him. Each of these leaders has been so kind to help me prepare for this day. They love you. They know your strength comes from many sources: a legendary can-do spirit, sophisticated tradecraft, and rock-solid integrity, among others.

“I want to hear from you—and learn from you—as I gain a greater understanding of the Agency’s opportunity to improve how we keep America safe. Our first opportunity to get together as a full group will be later this week in the auditorium. I look forward to that first conversation. After many weeks of anticipation, I am eager to join you, energized by the prospect of what we will achieve together.”

Mike