President Donald J. Trump has nominated Jay Clayton to be the Director of National Intelligence, a decision that has garnered significant bipartisan support across Capitol Hill and beyond. Clayton, who previously served as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York—where he pursued terrorists, cartels, and key national security threats—and as Chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission, is widely recognized for his extensive experience, keen judgment, and leadership skills in both public and private sectors. He is seen as the ideal candidate to enhance the capabilities of America’s intelligence community.
Lawmakers and leaders from various sectors are voicing their strong approval:
Senate Majority Leader John Thune: “President Trump’s nomination of Jay Clayton, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, to be the Director of National Intelligence highlights Clayton’s impressive credentials in both public and private sectors. His skill set is essential for managing the complex issues faced by the Director of National Intelligence. The Senate’s history of swift action on presidential nominees will continue with Clayton.”
Sen. Ted Budd: “Jay Clayton is an excellent choice for @ODNIgov. I know him well and trust his ability to lead and reform our intelligence community. His track record of prosecuting terrorists and protecting the nation from adversaries is exactly what our country needs.”
Sen. Katie Britt: “Outstanding pick, @POTUS! I am eager to support this nomination and appreciate the President’s dedication to national security.”
Sen. Shelley Moore Capito: “Strong leadership in the Intelligence Community is vital for homeland security and ensuring the intelligence community’s service to the American people. I believe @POTUS made an excellent choice in nominating Jay Clayton as Director of National Intelligence and look forward to hearing his vision during the confirmation process.”
Sen. Tom Cotton: “President Trump’s nomination of Jay Clayton as Director of National Intelligence is excellent. With significant experience in addressing national security threats, Clayton’s nomination will be processed quickly by the Senate Intelligence Committee.”
Sen. Chuck Grassley: “Jay Clayton, a respected lawyer and public servant, has been nominated by President Trump for Director of National Intelligence. I’m glad Sen. Cotton is holding intelligence hearings on Tuesday and Wednesday for his nomination.”
Sen. Lindsey Graham: “President Trump made an outstanding choice in nominating Jay Clayton as the new Director of National Intelligence. With real-world experience and the President’s complete confidence, Clayton has excelled in both public and private sectors. I look forward to his swift confirmation.”
Sen. Bill Hagerty: “@POTUS made a brilliant decision nominating Jay Clayton as Director of National Intelligence. As a longtime friend with great intellect and a passion for public service, I look forward to quickly supporting his confirmation.”
Sen. James Lankford: “Jay Clayton is an excellent pick for Director of National Intelligence. The Southern District of New York under his leadership prosecuted terrorists and major international crimes. With his executive experience from the SEC, Clayton is well-prepared to lead an agency in need of reorganization. I anticipate a swift confirmation.”
Sen. Mitch McConnell: “I am encouraged by the President’s nomination of Jay Clayton for Director of National Intelligence. Known to the Senate, his prior roles suggest he possesses the intellect and managerial skills necessary for the position. I look forward to the Senate’s consideration of his nomination.”
Sen. Dave McCormick: “President Trump has made an outstanding choice with Jay Clayton for Director of National Intelligence. His experience with the SEC and as U.S. Attorney makes him uniquely qualified. The Senate should act quickly to confirm him.”
Sen. Mike Rounds: “I had a productive meeting with Jay Clayton, nominated for Director of National Intelligence. Having first met him during his SEC chairman confirmation, I believe he is well-suited for this role and look forward to supporting him.”
Sen. Tim Scott: “President Trump’s nomination of Jay Clayton as Director of National Intelligence is an excellent choice. Having previously voted for him to lead the SEC, I am confident in his ability to guide our intelligence efforts globally. Let’s get him confirmed!”
Sen. Thom Tillis: “Jay Clayton is an outstanding choice by President Trump for Director of National Intelligence. With a proven leadership record and sound judgment, I look forward to working with colleagues to ensure a swift confirmation.”
Sen. Mark Warner: “I have known and respected Jay Clayton for many years and believe he is a capable public servant.”
House Majority Whip Tom Emmer: “Jay Clayton is a great choice for DNI. He is well-respected, smart, and will be a strong leader for our intelligence community. I look forward to his quick confirmation in the Senate!”
Rep. Buddy Carter: “@POTUS made a strong choice nominating Jay Clayton as Director of National Intelligence. I look forward to his swift confirmation and wish him success as he leads the intelligence community.”
Rep. French Hill: “I am pleased with President Trump’s nomination of Jay Clayton as Director of National Intelligence. Known for his capable management and legal expertise, Clayton is the right choice. I hope for a swift Senate confirmation.”
Rep. Jim Himes: “Having known Jay Clayton for decades and worked with him at the Securities Exchange Commission, I trust in his independence and legal respect. I hope he will maintain this integrity as Director of National Intelligence, and urge the Senate to confirm him promptly.”
Rep. Elise Stefanik: “Jay Clayton, nominated by President Trump for Director of National Intelligence, is an excellent choice. His swift confirmation is crucial for our national security.”
Rep. Ann Wagner: “Jay Clayton is a deeply respected leader and man of integrity. Having worked with him during his time as SEC Chair, I am confident in his ability to lead our intelligence community and ensure national safety.”
Former CIA Director and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo: “Fantastic pick… He’ll work tirelessly and is really smart. A fantastic pick and he will be a great DNI for the United States of America.”
Former Rep. Patrick McHenry: “Jay Clayton is a fantastic leader and will bring credibility to the DNI role.”
National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons: “Congratulations to Jay Clayton on his nomination as the next @ODNIgov Director. Clayton’s sound judgment, expert analysis, and principled leadership make him an excellent choice. The Senate should confirm him swiftly.”
Former National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow: “Clayton is a very smart choice.”
Commentator Mark Simone: “Congratulations to Jay Clayton, our US Attorney whom President Trump has nominated as Director of National Intelligence. A great choice.”
Senior Advisor Jason Miller: “Jay Clayton has a great reputation. Absolutely top-shelf. Total winner. This is a fantastic pick!”
