I have every confidence that not only will I demand that, but that they will continue to do that under my leadership if I am confirmed.

In the near-term threat to life and limb of Americans, yes. I'd put North Korea, China, and Russia right up there alongside them.

Everything I have seen suggests to me the report has an analytical product that is sound.

We need to be deeply cognizant about all of the foreign actors with malign intent who are attempting to impact those elections as well.

Russia has reasserted itself aggressively, invading and occupying Ukraine, threatening Europe, and doing nothing to aid in the destruction and defeat of ISIS.

I can't imagine that I would be asked that by the President-elect or then-President.

I think my comments were referring to the post-January 6, 2015, rampage of Iranian increased activity.

I take a back seat to no one with respect to protecting Americans' privacy, either.

It's a longstanding effort of the Russians. And frankly, there are others out there engaged in a similar set of activities.

I have great confidence in the men and women who work there. They are patriots, they're warriors.

The best way I know how to demonstrate that respect is to give them a leader that will have their backs and at the same time demand excellence of each and every one of them.

I think we have an obligation as leaders to share with the American people all that we can about what's going on and what's not going on and to do so in a truthful and complete manner.