“Ms. Haspel’s role in overseeing the use of torture by Americans is disturbing. Her refusal to acknowledge torture’s immorality is disqualifying. I believe the Senate should exercise its duty of advice and consent and reject this nomination.”

US Senator John McCain

On Wednesday (May 16 2018), the U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee will vote to approve Gina Haspel as the new director of the CIA. Follow us on Twitter: @Intel_Today

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As it is customary for the intelligence panel, the vote will take place behind closed doors. Mrs Gina Haspel is expected to be approved by the committee and she is likely to be confirmed by the full Senate.

Republicans hold a 51-49-seat majority in the 100-member Senate. If necessary, Vice President Mike Pence votes to break a tie.

Two Republicans — John McCain and Rand Paul — have announced opposition to Haspel.

But at least two Democrats – Senators Joe Manchin and Joe Donnelly – have said they would join Republicans in supporting her confirmation. Both Manchin and Donelly are facing uncertain reelection in ‘red states’.

Mrs Haspel will then become the first woman Director of the Central Intelligence Agency.

During her confirmation hearing (May 9 2018), Haspel pledged that she would never restart the CIA enhanced interrogation program .

She also said that she would never follow a morally objectionable order from president Trump.

But Mrs Haspel has declined to say if torture — as practised by the CIA in the aftermath of 9/11 — was immoral.

CIA nominee Gina Haspel declines to say if torture techniques are ‘immoral’

REFERENCES

U.S. Senate committee to vote on Trump CIA pick on Wednesday — Reuters

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CIA Director Nominee — Senate Intel Committee to Vote on Wednesday