Today, Explained

Coats checks out

Jul 30, 2019
Shane Harris, an intelligence and national security reporter at The Washington Post, delves into the implications of Dan Coats' resignation as Director of National Intelligence. He discusses the potential for a Trump loyalist to fill the role and the rise of conspiracy theories regarding a 'deep state.' The conversation covers the strained relationship between intelligence leaders and the presidency, particularly post-Helsinki summit, shedding light on the challenges facing U.S. national security and the importance of integrity in intelligence governance.
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ANECDOTE

Coats vs. Trump on Russia

  • Dan Coats publicly clashed with President Trump after the Helsinki summit with Putin.
  • Coats reaffirmed the U.S. intelligence community's findings on Russian election interference, contradicting Trump.
ANECDOTE

Public Disagreements

  • Coats expressed surprise at a White House tweet announcing Putin's visit, showing a disconnect with Trump.
  • He later criticized Trump's private meeting with Putin, angering the White House.
INSIGHT

Strained Relationship

  • Despite clashes, the relationship between Coats and Trump remained hot and cold.
  • Coats continued to contradict Trump's positions on Iran and North Korea, ultimately leading to further tension.
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