On this special episode of the United Security podcast, former Director of National Intelligence Jim Clapper joins host Ken Wainstein for the second installment of their two-part conversation. While the last episode recounted Director Clapper’s life and career before becoming DNI, this one focuses on his service during the Obama administration.
Director Clapper talks to Ken about the formation of the DNI role, the Obama administration’s response to the Arab Spring, and the controversy over the NSA’s collection of phone data.
This podcast is produced by CAFE Studios.
Tamara Sepper – Executive Producer; Adam Waller – Senior Editorial Producer; Nat Weiner — Audio Producer; David Kurlander — Editorial Producer, Sam Ozer-Staton — Editorial Producer
How does former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper remember the Obama years?
As the Biden administration begins, Director Clapper looks back on his DNI tenure
Former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper is no stranger to controversy. After joining Ken Wainstein two weeks ago to talk about the early part of his career, Director Clapper returns to break down the most intense intelligence debates of the Obama administration, from the Edward Snowden revelations to the investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.
As President Biden takes office, Clapper’s unique perspective on the appropriate role of intelligence seems all the more crucial. Director Clapper talks openly and passionately about the balance between safety and civil liberties, transparency and accountability, and the future of the intelligence community. In the process, he offers an invaluable lesson on the recent history of America’s stormy 2010s in global foreign policy and national security.
