James Clapper
Lieutenant General, U.S. Air Force (Retired) Democrat Intelligence Community
Summary
Former Director of National Intelligence who questioned Trump's fitness for office and said Putin was handling Trump like an asset after the Helsinki summit.
In Their Own Words
Key Statements
“
I think this past weekend is illustrative of what a great case officer Vladimir Putin is. He knows how to handle an asset, and that's what he's doing with the president.
After the Helsinki summit
“
I really question his ability to be — his fitness to be — in this office, and I also am beginning to wonder about his motivation for it.
Interview on Trump and Russia probe
“
I question his fitness to be in this office.
Same interview
Timeline
August 9, 2010
Became Director of National Intelligence
Appointed by Obama
January 20, 2017
Left DNI when Trump took office
End of tenure
2017
Questioned Trump's fitness for office
Early criticism
July 2018
Called Trump Putin's asset
After Helsinki summit
Why This Matters
Credibility & Background
Positions Held
- Director of National Intelligence (2010-2017)
- Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence (2007-2010)
- Director, Defense Intelligence Agency (1992-1995)
- Director, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (2001-2006)
Awards & Honors
- Defense Distinguished Service Medal
- Air Force Distinguished Service Medal
- Legion of Merit
Analysis
Reasons for Opposition
- 01 Questioned Trump's fitness for office
- 02 Said Putin was handling Trump like an asset
- 03 Questioned Trump's motivations
Documentation
Sources
Explore the full list of Republican officials, military leaders, and former staff who have spoken out against Trump.