Orrin Hatch: “I rise in support of S. 1718, the intelligence reauthorization bill, with the understanding that one inequity contained…”

“I rise in support of S. 1718, the intelligence reauthorization bill, with the understanding that one inequity contained in the bill will be corrected in conference. The bill in its current form contains what I believe is an inappropriate encroachment on the authority of the Federal Bureau of Investigation to staff its position of Assistant Director, National Security Division. The current bill requires that the FBI consult with the DCI prior to this appointment. The FBI, like any other agency, should be vested with the sound discretion to fill its ranks in a manner that is not burdened by outside Agency influence. I perceive this proposed requirement as an infringement by the foreign intelligence community upon domestic law enforcement. I recognize that, with respect to the FBI's National Security Division, there is some overlap between intelligence and law enforcement, but that alone does not justify the necessity of this measure. Let's not place an unnecessary check upon the FBI by imposing this additional requirement. Remember, it was the National Security Division which, notwithstanding bureaucratic hostility within the CIA, vigorously pursued the Aldrich Ames case. How zealous will future NSD higher ups be if they feel their career may turn on CIA approval?”