Proceedings. This is being live on the website. I would prefer to hold this in person, but because of the threat posed by covid19 remains serious and widespread, we are proceeding remotely to ensure the safety of our witnesses, staff and public. Today is the 19th anniversary of the september 11 terrorist attacks, in which nearly 3000 people perished, thousands more were wounded, and our nation awakened to the threat of international terrorism. Of National Unity and sense shared purpose in the aftermath of that tragic day has sadly stated. Faded. Nothing is more important in this committee than ensuring we avoid another deadly terrorist attack on american soil. Today is an opportunity to recognize the heroism and sacrifice of our Intelligence Community professionals who toil in the shadows and receive little or no recognition. It is through their selfless efforts we have prevented further attacks our homeland, and we have hunted down and brought to justice the masterminds of those heino
National counterintelligence and security center. The Senate Intelligence committee considered the of texas congressman John Radcliffe to be the next director of National Intelligence. Since august, the position has been occupied by officials in the absence of a senateconfirmed director. Representative radcliffe was asked about whistleblowers, his view on russian interference and the origins of the coronavirus as well as his ability to be nonpartisan as the nations top intel chief. This hearing will be a little different. It is perhaps the first congressional hearing held during the extenuating circumstances of a pandemic. We have a sparse crowd and an expanded dais reflective of the committees adherence to guidelines put forward by the rules committee and attending physician. We thank our members and staff are there patience and understanding as we work through the logistics involved in holding this hearing, which is a critical part of the committees ongoing oversight of the Intellige
Congressional hearing held during the extenuating circumstances of a pandemic. We have a sparse crowd and an expanded dais reflective of the committees adherence to guidelines put forward by the rules committee and attending physician. We thank our members and staff are there patience and understanding as we work through the logistics involved in holding this hearing, which is a critical part of the committees ongoing oversight of the Intelligence Community. Members will be joining us on a rotating basis throughout the morning. Again, this afternoon, as we move to close session. Their absence now is not a reflection of the importance they place on this matter. We have asked members to watch as much of the hearings as they can from their offices, only coming into the hearing room to ask questions. I would also like to thank the press corps for your accommodation of the restrictions we are placing as we seek to fulfill our requirements to hold this nomination hearing in an open setting,
Thank you mister chairman. Congressman Us Intelligence community have an Important Role in warning our leaders about pandemics like covid19. Because outbreaks of course are not just the publichealth matter but also a matter of National Security based on public statements and reporting alone , do you believe that president from as accurately conveyed the severity of the threat of covid19 to the American People . Are you saying presently . We are in the midst of the pandemic presently , correct. The question because i guess im misunderstanding. Im sorry as he accurately reflected the status of the pandemic . The severity of the pandemic, yes. As he conveyed the severity of covid19 to the American People. I believe so. You do and according to april 27 2020 Washington Post article resident from receipt upwards of a dozen briefings on covid19 on the Us Intelligenceagencies between january and february. Of this year. During which time he repeatedly denied the severity of the threat. On janua
Americans. It has sickened over 1 million americans and it is impacted every one of us. My deepest sympathies are with those we lost, and i salute the efforts of those on the front lines including the dedicated Intelligence Community professionals reporting for duty and carrying out their mission. These are truly trying times and your courage, honor and sacrifice will not be forgotten. Id like to begin by thanking President Trump for his Incredible Opportunity for me to serve our nation and for his confidence in me. I would also like to thank former u. S. Attorney general John Ashcroft for his gracious and humbling statement. I am forever grateful for your faith in me. I also want to recognize and thank senator cornyn for his kind words, and my fellow texans for their support. It is been the privilege of my life to represent the constituents of texas was Congressional District. Finally and most Important League theres no way i could be with you today without the encouragement and suppo