Director of Central Intelligence · Obama Administration · 2013-2017

John Brennan

Democrat Intelligence Community
Summary

Former CIA Director whose security clearance was revoked by Trump and who called Trump's conduct 'nothing short of treasonous' and a threat to national security.

In Their Own Words

Key Statements

Donald Trump's press conference performance in Helsinki rises to & exceeds the threshold of 'high crimes & misdemeanors.' It was nothing short of treasonous.
July 16, 2018 · Twitter
After Trump's Helsinki summit with Putin
When the full extent of your venality, moral turpitude, and political corruption becomes known, you will take your rightful place as a disgraced demagogue in the dustbin of history.
May 24, 2018 · Twitter
Reply to Trump tweet
Trump is drunk on power and he's destroying our democracy.
February 10, 2020 · MSNBC
Interview after his book release

Timeline

March 8, 2013

Became CIA Director

Confirmed under Obama

January 20, 2017

Left CIA when Trump took office

End of tenure

July 16, 2018

Called Trump's Helsinki performance treasonous

Harsh criticism of Trump

August 15, 2018

Trump revoked his security clearance

Retaliation for criticism

2020

Endorsed Joe Biden

Supported Democrat

Why This Matters

Credibility & Background

Background

Former CIA Director, spent 25 years at CIA, senior intelligence official

Positions Held

  • Director of Central Intelligence (2013-2017)
  • Deputy National Security Advisor (2013)
  • Director of National Counterterrorism Center (2004-2005)
Analysis

Reasons for Opposition

  1. 01 Called Trump's Helsinki performance treasonous
  2. 02 Called Trump a disgraced demagogue
  3. 03 Said Trump was drunk on power and destroying democracy
Electoral Position

Endorsed Joe Biden in 2020

View All Critics

Explore the full list of Republican officials, military leaders, and former staff who have spoken out against Trump.