William Webster, the only person to have led both the FBI and the CIA, is urging senators to think carefully before confirming Kash Patel as FBI director and Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence. In a letter sent to lawmakers this week, the 100-year-old former intelligence chief expressed deep concerns about the potential nominations, warning that they could undermine the independence and integrity of these critical agencies.
Webster, who served as FBI director under Presidents Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan and later led the CIA, highlighted Patel’s close ties to President-elect Donald Trump as a red flag. “Statements such as ‘He’s my intel guy’ and his record of executing the president’s directives suggest a loyalty to individuals rather than the rule of law,” Webster wrote. “This sets a dangerous precedent for an agency tasked with impartial enforcement of justice.”
Embed from Getty ImagesReflecting on his own tenure, Webster noted that during his time as FBI director, he was contacted by the president only twice—once by Carter and once by Reagan. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a clear separation between law enforcement and political influence.
Webster also questioned Gabbard’s qualifications for the role of director of national intelligence, citing her “profound lack of intelligence experience” and the complexity of overseeing 18 disparate intelligence agencies. “History has shown us the dangers of compromising this independence,” he wrote. “When leaders of these organizations become too closely aligned with political figures, public confidence erodes, and our nation’s security is jeopardized.”
The letter, first reported by Politico, comes as Trump prepares to take office in January. Webster, who endorsed Joe Biden in 2020 and Kamala Harris in 2024, stressed that while every president deserves trusted appointees, competence and independence must remain the top priorities.
The Trump transition team has pushed back against Webster’s concerns. Spokesman Alex Pfeiffer defended Patel, telling Fox News, “Kash Patel is loyal to the Constitution. He’s worked under Presidents Obama and Trump in key national security roles.”
Embed from Getty ImagesAs for Gabbard, Trump transition official Alexa Henning highlighted her military and congressional experience. “Lt. Col. Gabbard is an active member of the Army and has served for over two decades,” Henning said. “As someone who has consumed intelligence at the highest levels, including during wartime, she recognizes the importance of partnerships with allies to keep the American people safe.”
Webster’s letter serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required in leading the nation’s intelligence and law enforcement agencies. As the Senate considers these nominations, his words underscore the need for leaders who prioritize the rule of law and national security over political loyalty.
Feature photo by Gage Skidmore
