January 5, 2009
Posted: 05:13 PM ET

From
Sen. Dianne Feinstein believes the CIA is best-served by having an intelligence professional in charge.
Sen. Dianne Feinstein believes the CIA is best-served by having an intelligence professional in charge.

(CNN) –- Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the Senate’s incoming Intelligence committee chair, slammed President-elect Barack Obama’s choice of Leon Panetta as director of the CIA Monday.

“I was not informed about the selection of Leon Panetta to be the CIA Director. I know nothing about this, other than what I’ve read,” Feinstein said in a statement. “My position has consistently been that I believe the Agency is best-served by having an intelligence professional in charge at this time.”

A Feinstein spokesman told CNN’s Dana Bash that the California senator found out about Obama’s pick after her staff showed her a New York Times report.

"The President-elect will now have a chance to make his arguments,” the spokesman said. “Her next move is to listen."

Feinstein is the new chairwoman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. While Panetta’s political career — as a congressman, and as President Clinton’s chief of staff — spans three decades, he has little hands-on intelligence experience.

–CNN’s Pam Benson contributed to this report.

Filed under: Barack Obama • Dianne Feinstein • Leon Panetta


Patriot   January 5th, 2009 10:21 pm ET

Bush kept us safe?
But not safe from himself!
Bush kept us safe?
Some Americans are so tone deaf! lol

Are some Americans still so asleep asleep as to not recognize that the worse attack on the mainland HAPPENED ON BUSH'S WATCH …… ON 911?

3000 Americans were slaughtered on 911 ON BUSH WATCH!

How did Bush keep the tens of thousands of American LIVES, LIMBS & MENTAL HEALTH 'safe' in his UNPROVOKED Iraq bush war?

Bill Charlotte,NC   January 5th, 2009 10:09 pm ET

If I were Obama, what she thought would bother me for about ten seconds. He is not answerable to you Frankenstein; get over it!

Maggie SC   January 5th, 2009 10:07 pm ET

Anyone with the Clintons need to know what intelligence means, I hope this lady know what she is talking about. Intelligence thse days is hard to find.

Anna, ATL   January 5th, 2009 10:05 pm ET

And the President-Elect doesnt choose who is Seated, he chooses a nominee. The Senate has to confirm every recommended appointment, and has a right and an obligation to question each choice and their credentials.

Checks and balances, ya know.
that is why we have a president and not a king.

fred michaels   January 5th, 2009 10:05 pm ET

I think that if Obama wants to help the country, that he should offer to work for a salary of one dollar a year. He should also not spend the tax payers money sending his children to private school that costs over 30,000 dollars a year. Every other parent in the United States has to pay for their own childs education. Lastly maybe Obama should try staying in a less expensive hotel while waiting to take control.

Anna, ATL   January 5th, 2009 10:03 pm ET

Diane Feinstein has been in the Senate forever.

She has a right to voice an opinion and the Clout of Seniority to Stand on it.

I think Obama can handle and respect thoughtful criticism.

I kind of like the whole American idea of debating our differences.

Susie   January 5th, 2009 10:02 pm ET

I see ACORN on every board…ACORN did not "steal the election." Have they even been charged with anything? All they do is register voters; they don't vote for them, for God's sake. You need ID that matches your voter registration info–how many people faked that?
The only recent election that was stolen was 2000-by the Supreme Court. Gore won the popular vote, and they GAVE it to Bush. In 2004, there were plenty of irregularities in Ohio, but Kerry chose not to put the country through another farce of a recount, and let it go.
I realize Republicans are used to getting their own way, but this time, you lost, and the country will, hopefully, return to some semblance of a country that respects its citizens, the citizens of the world, and our Constitution. Bush should have been impeached two years ago, but Pelosi was in on the torture meetings, and afraid for her own butt. So he's slid until now.

Ms. Johnson, Pearland,Texas   January 5th, 2009 9:49 pm ET

Feinstein has never liked and will never like Obama or anything he does. She is a Hillary supporter who can't get over the fact that she loss. FYI Diane to get respect you must give respect. Get over yourself Obama is the president and therefore he gets to choose and the senate confirms or not. Your dark side is showing and it's not becoming.

empty heads voted for an empty vessel   January 5th, 2009 9:45 pm ET

Reality check, I am no fan of Bush, but to lay this at his feet is a joke that has gotten dumber as the years went on and unlike your hero Bill Clinton who IGNORED multiple bombings on HIS WATCH, Bush did something:

In the four years since the inspectors left, intelligence reports show that Saddam Hussein has worked to rebuild his chemical and biological weapons stock, his missile delivery capability, and his nuclear program. He has also given aid, comfort, and sanctuary to terrorists, including Al Qaeda members, though there is apparently no evidence of his involvement in the terrible events of September 11, 2001. It is clear, however, that if left unchecked, Saddam Hussein will continue to increase his capacity to wage biological and chemical warfare, and will keep trying to develop nuclear weapons. Should he succeed in that endeavor, he could alter the political and security landscape of the Middle East, which as we know all too well affects American security." — Hillary Clinton, October 10, 2002

"I am absolutely convinced that there are weapons…I saw evidence back in 1998 when we would see the inspectors being barred from gaining entry into a warehouse for three hours with trucks rolling up and then moving those trucks out." — Clinton's Secretary of Defense William Cohen in April of 2003

These are actual quotes from Clintonista's who supposedly knew a little bit about what was going on, I have MANY more quotes from LIBERALS and OTHER Countries who talked a good game that I could post but CNN doesn't have the disk space needed,

Bush is a dolt, but he did MORE in eight years to protect us than Billyboy did and they BOTH ended their tenure with a recession.

That my friend is the real "reality".

Rob   January 5th, 2009 9:37 pm ET

the ones with hands on experience screwed up big time on WMD and they have cost the U.S. lives and money . shame on them . maybe he'll be better . he can't be worse

Joanna   January 5th, 2009 9:36 pm ET

And who put you in charge Diane? I didn't realize the decision was yours…….

Sherrol in Canada   January 5th, 2009 9:34 pm ET

Who is this chick?……Please!!!

Cam, Atlanta   January 5th, 2009 9:34 pm ET

EVERY OBAMA PICK IS PART OF AN OVERALL STRATEGY!

Obama has picked the best campaign staff and won with little executive experience and you want to question his moves, now?

What may seem puzzling to us is what Obama intended. Come Jan. 20th..his picks and strategy will all fall into place.

Stay tuned…I trust Obama's strategy.

Texas Teacher   January 5th, 2009 9:31 pm ET

I, for one, feel that Panetta was following Bush/Cheney or should I say Cheney/Bush orders…. Just as I believe he will follow Obama's agenda! Maybe I'm wrong…. I don't think so, however. :)

SamSunny   January 5th, 2009 9:25 pm ET

I have never seen an incoming President whom everyone everywhere felt owed them – literally. This was an election folks, it took millions to get Barack elected. All those in D.C. think he needs to keep them informed first and their input should be of the upmost importance.

voter   January 5th, 2009 9:25 pm ET

if the cia director job requires management, then the individual does not have to have intelligence/cia experience. Clearly, Panetta has management experience as he was chief of staff for clinton. In addition, he is aganist torture and has no ties to the cia community. this is important because most of the people in the cia community has ties to the current administration who believes in torture. Panetta is a good pick.

Steve   January 5th, 2009 9:24 pm ET

How DARE Obama make a choice without running it by the esteemed Sen. Feinstein! You'd think he was, oh I don't know, the president-elect or something.

MLH   January 5th, 2009 9:21 pm ET

Well, he's the one who gets to pick names and she gets to disagree. Sounds a bit like sucking on sour grapes though when she complains that she was 'not informed.'

John G   January 5th, 2009 9:19 pm ET

I never for a moment thought I would be overly appreciative of any of Obama's picks but exactly what qualifies Panetta to run the CIA?

TCM   January 5th, 2009 9:17 pm ET

Reality Check, you really need to do a reality check; you've been reading and absorbing too much liberal propoganda from the the Obama website…..Bush kept your sorry behind safe for 8 yrs…let's see how long before Obama allows us to become a doormat…the terrorists support him not because of his questionable background of Islamic contact, but because he's spineless and they know they can run right over him…Thank God he's retaining Gates and Co., otherwise we might as well start building mosques.

Boston Irish   January 5th, 2009 9:16 pm ET

Well, Diane, it appears you are in a "Need to Know sITUATION" and apparently, PE Obama didn't think you needed to know. Too bad. Guess you are not as important as you think you are. I just wish you and your cohort, Pelosi, would both see the light and get the H out of Dodge. I know what it's like having you two bozos as senators. I lived most of my life in California and I'm happy to say I NEVER VOTED FOR EITHER OF YOU!!

Eugene   January 5th, 2009 9:15 pm ET

Sure, Feinstein, let's have one of those folks in the CIA, a so-called professional, who condones Bush policies such as water-boarding, Guantanamo, and creates such accurate great intelligence reports on pre-war Iraq. President Obama is right on to get the house organized and not pick someone inside a messed-up house.

Matthew Gerring   January 5th, 2009 9:13 pm ET

Yeah, look Diane, we all know how much you like torture porn, but it's time to give it a rest.

Charlie in Maine   January 5th, 2009 9:13 pm ET

People on both sides of this are missing the point. I respect Senator Feinstein and President Obama. Can't they disagree about something without people attacking either one? Can't they just be on opposite sides of this question? Obama will of course try to convince congress to accept his nominees. The Senator has a responsibility to question.

The responses on both sides of this blog represent one of the worst legecies of the Bush Administration. Vilifying those who don't agree with you.

Obama has promised to listen to all points of veiw. So far he has done nothing to hint that he will not. Lets let personal attacks be a thing of the past and focus on what is right instaed of who.

We have a"grown up" heading to the White House now. Let's follow his example.

TCM   January 5th, 2009 9:13 pm ET

Wow…he has little hands on experience…that's why Obama picked him! Someone that's as inexperienced as he is!~

bill for barack   January 5th, 2009 9:13 pm ET

Poor little girlie got her feelings hurt ?
Time to go back to the kitchen, honey, and leave governing this nation to the men.

Rick Sutter   January 5th, 2009 9:03 pm ET

Poor choice. Poor judgement. There are only three vital responsibilities of the Federal government. At the top of the list is national defense. This is a very dangerous choice.

Texas Teacher   January 5th, 2009 9:02 pm ET

Seems to me that it might have been a good idea to have listened BEFORE talking. :) Not such a good idea to second guess in her position before listening. I don't think Obama needs her approval to make the selection. Just saying…

Larry of Boston   January 5th, 2009 9:00 pm ET

Hooray for Senator Feinstein. Obama's all inclusive fetish is wearing thin. Somebody needs to teach this TOTALLY INEXPERIENCED JUNIOR SENATOR that you need to appoint qualified people, especially to head the CIA.

Obama is going make a bunch of giant blunders as he learns the job of President over the next 2-3 years.

mtrav   January 5th, 2009 8:59 pm ET

This is a joke, isn't it? Who cares what Feinstein the torturer wants. She should be thrown off the committee altogether.

"Hey Now January 5th, 2009 5:14 pm ET

And the Senate would be best served by having term limits to avoid career hacks like Feinstein."

You're so right.

Mel of Alexandria, Virginia   January 5th, 2009 8:57 pm ET

Sometimes an institution can become ingrown and unable to reform itself. If that is the case bringing in an outsider could be the best way forward. Those of us who do not know the details should remain open-minded and stop pretending as if we know what is best.

Bell   January 5th, 2009 8:55 pm ET

Wouldn't it have been more ethical for her to have conversed with the PE about this instead of talking to the press first? I don't see how this will help unite our country's citizens.

antonio   January 5th, 2009 8:55 pm ET

"My Friends, let me tell you", January 5th, 2009 7:41 pm ET

"Diane,didnt anyone tell you your days on that committee could be numbered"

FYI. She was just appointed Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Com. by Harry Reid. Obama has no say in the matter.

Alex   January 5th, 2009 8:54 pm ET

What kind of leverage does the CIA have on Feinstein?!?!

The intelligence community is waging a fierce publicity battle to retain its insular, unregulated authority, however, a new administration is the best time to purge the CIA of the undemocratic elements that have promoted domestic spying, torture, the fictionalization of national intelligence and other policies designed to oppress and wage aggressive war. I hope Panetta can manage to do some of this… And I hope a good progressive challenger for Feinstein's next Democratic primary battle can be found to unseat one of the most mediocre Senators next to Harry Reid!

rich   January 5th, 2009 8:53 pm ET

Lets see, who is going to be the President here? Is it Diane Hillary Feinstein, or Barack Obama. Hmm..lets see..the last time I checked Barack Obama was elected as the next POTUS. It's his call for his intellengence chief, and not Ms. Feinstein. She either supports it or she doesnt. But if she is expecting him to clear his appointments with her before he does, then she needs to check herself. I think her wig is getting too big for her head or too tight. Either way, it's sit sitting well. Get a grip Ms. Feinstein. You are not POTUS in waiting, Barack is.

Intelligent American   January 5th, 2009 8:53 pm ET

"Proud American" – How does your comment relate to the article? Oh yeah, IT DOESN'T.

Tim   January 5th, 2009 8:46 pm ET

Is Bozo in here? I've looked at some of the other rings. Is he in this ring? Am I at the right circus?

antonio   January 5th, 2009 8:43 pm ET

Sen.Feinstein is a Democrat btw…thought some you fools might want to know.

tess   January 5th, 2009 8:42 pm ET

IF THIS WASN'T SO FUNNY THAT THE DEMS CAN'T GET ANY THING RIGHT IT WOULD BE TRULY SERIOUS WITH THE WORLD IN THE SHAPE IT IS!

S Callahan   January 5th, 2009 8:41 pm ET

Maria has it right….this is drama for distraction…..

Marcia, Marcia, Marcia in CA   January 5th, 2009 8:40 pm ET

The HONEYmoon is over…

Myrna Ulrich   January 5th, 2009 8:39 pm ET

WHO REALLY CARES WHAT THE OLD BAG THINKS?? HER DAYS IN THE SENATE ARE NUMBERED??? WHO REALLY CARES ABOUT OBAMA'S CHOICES,?? HE IS NOTHING BUT A WEASEL FOR THE CLINTONS.. I CANNOT WAIT TO VOTE HIM OUT OF OFFICE AND NONE TOO SOON ….

charles NJ   January 5th, 2009 8:30 pm ET

it just goes to show the emperor has no clothes… his transition has been less than stellar

Larry   January 5th, 2009 8:24 pm ET

Typical Democrats—Doesn't ANYBODY in the Democratic Party need any experience to lead this nation in these trying times??

Obama – president —NO EXPERIENCE
Penetta- top CIA——–NO EXPERIENCE

ON AND ON AND ON-NO EXPERIENCE

paul oregon   January 5th, 2009 8:22 pm ET

obama isnt even in office yet and the egos of reid pelosi and feinstein are rearing there heads. no wonder us dems. are always sucking hind tit. there needs to be term limits and wage roll backs.

earle,florida   January 5th, 2009 8:19 pm ET

Good for Mr Panetta,now he can get the goods on Feinstein for all her shaky-deals (steering/underwriting recommendations) with her husbands lucrative government contracts in California.This should keep her in tow, regarding the dispersment of PE Obama's ,"Stimulus Package", disproportionally going to her state,rather than evenly distributed as PE Obama would have it! PS. Mr.Panetta is also from California, but has a superior IQ,with an astute sense of pragmatism.

John   January 5th, 2009 8:16 pm ET

Obama is bringing new people to US intelligent world, thats is why is picking some new to this agency, lets give him a chance, all those other intelligent gurus fail us, the made the biggest intelligent blonder in US history.

john from sandiego   January 5th, 2009 8:14 pm ET

Leon Panetta ?? this is starting to get real scary…who next, madeline halfbright ??

Meka   January 5th, 2009 8:13 pm ET

"Get Rid Of This One, Too"

Congress Term Limits . . . 12 year, NO Retirement !

keeth in california   January 5th, 2009 8:09 pm ET

Jenny, keep on making up those funny stories. Diane, it's time to resign.

JJ1222   January 5th, 2009 8:08 pm ET

My Friends, let me tell you, January 5th, 2009 7:41 pm ET

Diane,didnt anyone tell you your days on that committee could be numbered.Your stance on open borders and wide open ports dont make me feel any safer.
______________________________________________________
I bet you were a fan of Bill Richardson for commerce. He was for open borders. How about Napalatano living in AZ I can tell you she is for open borders.

Feinstein brings up legimitate questions in regards to this nominee.

Andrea   January 5th, 2009 8:05 pm ET

For those who are pointing out the fact that Obama can only nominate and the Senate has to approve so he needs to listen to Feinstein need to catch a clue. Do you really think that Obama has not done his homework on votes for his noms?! How many Senators do you thinkg are already "in the bag" for Obama? I mean really…give the man some credit. If Feinstein is "out of the loop", that says more about her future on the Intelligence Committee than it says about Obama's CIA pick.

JJ1222   January 5th, 2009 8:05 pm ET

Reading these responses crack me up. Senator Feinstein who has a say in this as Obama's nominee needs to be confirmed is all of a sudden worthless, should shut up, should resign. So basically anyone who disagrees with Obama even if its the same party should not be listened to. Really read some of these posts, does everyone really think that Obama should not be questioned at all. Everything he says goes and can do no wrong? You are asking to be disappointed and are abandoning the structure of this great nation.

clifford   January 5th, 2009 8:03 pm ET

How in the hell could the Democratic party be imploding before Obama has even taken the oath of office!! Sen. Diane Feinstein is definitely correct on this one though! Hillary sure is building her coalition!! Wonder what dirty pool she has on Obama??

FreeNLovIt   January 5th, 2009 8:02 pm ET

I pray that the right man be in the position. I think you do need someone who understands the minds of these secret men.

ED FL   January 5th, 2009 8:00 pm ET

I think Senator Feinstein Needs to be replaced . Her record to this point has been lackluster and she can not show any instance where her performance justifies remaining as the committee member.

Ken   January 5th, 2009 7:59 pm ET

Hey Reality Check, sounds like you need one.

YOU never forget that your golden boy Clinton was in office for YEARS while Bin Laden bombed us time and again, try reading history.

He had a dozen chances to take out Bin Laden which the CIA told him was planning to strike the U.S. (Guess they got that one right, huh?), but he did'nt because he did not want to hurt his "image", sound familiar, like B.O.

Even democrats are upset at this, yet all you do is bash them because they dared to disagree with the "One".

You truly are a cult.

FreeNLovIt   January 5th, 2009 7:50 pm ET

Okay, fine. Who should be in this spot? Wesley Clark?

Willy Brown   January 5th, 2009 7:45 pm ET

Another Clinton clown picked by Obama so the left wing loons will be happy.

yasmine   January 5th, 2009 7:45 pm ET

I think Ms Feinstein wish it was her.. since she let Obama and Hilary use her livingroom …to meet

Lyndon from CA   January 5th, 2009 7:43 pm ET

Leon Who??

New Yorker   January 5th, 2009 7:43 pm ET

He's got to have someone in that position with no experience; better chances of him selling us out that way.

Dan   January 5th, 2009 7:42 pm ET

Dianne Feinstein is right. You need experience in every field and including presidency. Barack has nothing there so naturally this nomination also has nothing. Besides his cabinet looks like Bill Clinton's cabinet. Is this a change? I thin Diane Feinstein should have stood up when they nominated Barack Obama as their presidential candidate. As we know, Obama Drama has just begun and everybody is watching. This drama will last for the next four years. It is pitiful.

My Friends, let me tell you,   January 5th, 2009 7:41 pm ET

Diane,didnt anyone tell you your days on that committee could be numbered.Your stance on open borders and wide open ports dont make me feel any safer.

Reality Check!   January 5th, 2009 7:38 pm ET

#44 = Affirmative Action January 5th, 2009 6:49 pm ET
———————————————-
Just a reminder, Bush was president for 8 months before 9/11 happened, and it was HIS intelligence guy that kind of screwed up the whole thing. Bush and his administration were advised of the pending dangers, and chose to catch up on his missed reading by going back to kinder garden during the attacks on the WTC. Oh, and good job on his intelligence in regards to those WMD's…BRILLIANT RESEARCH man…really pulled that one off. Oh, and really good job on the war in Iraq…that was genius how we won that war so quickly….oh wait?

Go ahead and believe your delusional, psycopathic banter.
PS: I'm not a fan of this pick, but it really is pathetic how people like you try to duck any blame that your man caused during his horrid eight years in office.

Ryan   January 5th, 2009 7:37 pm ET

Mike in Syracuse is just like all the other republicans still trying to claim Iraq was an intelligence failure rather than a blatant disregard of the facts by bush and cheney. Keep watching fox news mike, they have your opinion all ready to spoon feed to you.

Yes to Obama Pick   January 5th, 2009 7:36 pm ET

I respectfully disagree with you Mrs. Feinstein. Obama's pick is supposed to bring a new vision in our intelligence system – is not necessarly someone that has experience in oversee torturing of prisioners SOMEONE NEW WITH A NEW VISION!!!

JJ12343   January 5th, 2009 7:35 pm ET

Al Ram January 5th, 2009 6:02 pm ET

Senator Feinstein if you want a CIA director that you like, please run for the presidency and if you win you will have the chance to appoint one. Else, accept it.
______________________________________________________

Some of you idiots need to realize that she has a say, Panetta still needs to be confirmed!

Proud American   January 5th, 2009 7:34 pm ET

Republicans please take a deep breathe, stand back and relax. Your time has come and gone, face it you blew it. COULDN'T GET THE JOB DONE. Why don't you do the world a favor go back to sleep for about 16 years, but please shut the hell up.

Yvonne   January 5th, 2009 7:29 pm ET

People Amaze Me, folks were upset that the FEMA director had no experience because he DID A HORRIBLE JOB after Katrina!

It would not have mattered if he were competent.

Proud American   January 5th, 2009 7:28 pm ET

Mike, Syracuse NY = Oh your the boys in the hood and medal detector racist Idiot. Should have known your a Idiot and can't tell me anything or anyone else.

w.l. jones   January 5th, 2009 7:27 pm ET

Many years near the center of power but no experience on the new job. The more knowledge a person attain the sooner they learnt he or she don ,t know as much as they thought about the complexity of our intel..agancy.

Allan   January 5th, 2009 7:23 pm ET

Who is the Republican writing all these inaccurate and misleading headlines at CNN.com today?

"Slam"?

Franken "Claims" Victory?

Seriously, dudes, you lost. Give up.

Proud American   January 5th, 2009 7:22 pm ET

Mike, Syracuse NY = Oh I understand you mean like when we put Republicans in those positions and they couldn't do the job? Oh thanks for educating me. Dear God what would I have done if you didn't tell me. Idiot.

Rod B.   January 5th, 2009 7:22 pm ET

So, Diane, run for president, get elected, and name your own CIA Director.

Terrible and scary choice---   January 5th, 2009 7:19 pm ET

if any of you have read the 9/11 report, you know that we need a very intelligent "intelligence" person running the CIA. There's no room for mediocrity in dealing with the type of terrorists that took part in 9/11.

SOUTHERN HOTTIE   January 5th, 2009 7:15 pm ET

I DON'T CARE WHAT THIS OLD HAG HAS TO SAY. SHUTTEE ALREADY.

C.T.   January 5th, 2009 7:14 pm ET

You are so right on the mark,, Mark. That's why boy george screwed the pooch with intelligence on Iraq, he tried to make his own. Talk about inexperience.

a new year   January 5th, 2009 7:12 pm ET

who cares what this woman thinks,she oviously doesn't keep up with whats going on or she would have been better informed.

Ken in NC   January 5th, 2009 7:11 pm ET

Feinstein is resisting change already. Obama wants to make changes they do not want. Now Democrats will agree with changes he makes that they want, especially if it involves a Republican but Obama is attempting to make the changes he feels are needed. I suspect PE Obama's worst enemies are going to be his own Democrats. Well Feinstein was not informed in the manner to which she is accustomed. Get over it Feinstein. It is change. Obama is the incoming President and he is trying to put in place the team he needs to work. If you disagree that is fine. Run for the office and should you win then you appoint the people you want into positions and as President you will not have to call others to tell them you are going to do something. I think they will find out when they read it. Get over it Senator Feinstein and move on.

People amaze me   January 5th, 2009 7:06 pm ET

So if the logic people are using here in defense that the person doesn't need experience then why was people upset at the FEMA director after Katrina. I mean cmon why would people get upset about his experience running dog shows.

Gary of El Centro, Ca   January 5th, 2009 7:02 pm ET

I guess she felt her toes were stepped on because she didn't get advance notice of the pick……get over it lady, and lets move on…..there is too much to do to get all uptight over a perceived slight.

frank Honolulu HI   January 5th, 2009 7:02 pm ET

Sen. Dianne Feinstein does not have the bully pulpit. Why she goes about making public statements as if she were the President make me wonder.Are you on the team or in it for yourself?

GiroGeezer, Calif.   January 5th, 2009 6:58 pm ET

Don't lose any sleep over it Senator Feinstein, we will be voting you out of office in two years. Leon Panetta has forgot more than you will have ever learned.

arc, Lugano CH   January 5th, 2009 6:54 pm ET

I support President Elect Obama. I believe he is making the right choices – even those which may seem maybe little puzzling at the outset. Penetta for CIA Director..hmmm…..I am waiting to see how this story develops. I was hoping to see Clark have a role in the new administration.

On verra…but onward to 1/20/2009!

Zion   January 5th, 2009 6:51 pm ET

Democrats kill me. That's one thing I must give Republicans you can't pay them to tear each other down to the media even when they are DEAD WRONG. Leave it to Democrats. People said they wanted changed, okay. As far as 2012, don't worry, President Obama has it in the bag.

joshua   January 5th, 2009 6:50 pm ET

someone needs to let the PE know that CIA doesn't stand for
"Clintons In Again". They did a great job with intel when they were in office (USS Cole, 1st WTC attack, partial 2nd WTC attack, OKC). They did like to go after American citizens though (Waco, Ruby Ridge)… nice pick PE!

Tom   January 5th, 2009 6:50 pm ET

Not a fan of the pick. Wake up people, Obama is not king. She does have a say, has to go to a vote. The ignorance of the public is scary!!!

#44 = Affirmative Action   January 5th, 2009 6:49 pm ET

To barbara campbell:

Obama is selecting the same fools that brought us Sept 11. This Panetta guy was Clinton's Chief of Staff and largely responsible for the destruction of our intelligence community, which lead to the attacks. Maybe Kennedy wasn't that far off when he called him Osama!

Cheney   January 5th, 2009 6:48 pm ET

So!Go sit in the corner bleep,I will call you when I need you.

Texas Democrat   January 5th, 2009 6:44 pm ET

I love Diane. She was a great Clinton Superdelegate.

Sly in Seattle   January 5th, 2009 6:44 pm ET

I dont see the part where she "slammed" his pick.. looking for controversy, CNN?

MT   January 5th, 2009 6:41 pm ET

Nothing new here, more like a puppet of the 90's. Who's in charge? Obama or the Clintons?

Nancy   January 5th, 2009 6:41 pm ET

Look Lady! Intelligence Professionals are just people that are really smart and up to date on current events. That doesn't mean an intelligence professional HAS to be in charge of the CIA – the RIGHT person has to be in charge of the CIA. And noone has to let you know anything – Especially the Prez!

r sisk, nevada   January 5th, 2009 6:38 pm ET

I would hardly call this a SLAM. She disagrees with Obama's selection. Big Deal.

Kevin B   January 5th, 2009 6:37 pm ET

Mike in Syracuse- Did you ever think that the reason for the appointment of Panetta is to avoid exactly what happened in the Bush adminstration . "bad intellegence"

Panetta is known as an competent, thoughtful and honest administrator. He will likely be tasked with recalibrating a completely demoralized and misused CIA.

There are many precedents of DIA directors without security background (see HW Bush)

Steve   January 5th, 2009 6:36 pm ET

Uhhh…Diane? If you check the Constitution, the president does not work for Congress. He is perfectly within his rights to select whomever he wants for Director of CIA. These snarky comments from you only show you as the self-aggrandizing career hack that you are. If you can't do something positive, then step out of the way. Americans in general are tired of this kind of stuff.

Juan Grain   January 5th, 2009 6:36 pm ET

Who cares what she thinks, who is she anyway the maid?

geraldine   January 5th, 2009 6:34 pm ET

Why is the story (and everyone's comments) about Feinstein's reaction to not being told, and not Panetta's obvious lack of qualifcation for this job? He has not one iota of experience in intelligence or defense, yet he's been nominated to be the country's lead spy. Doesn't anyone else find this strange or concerning? Whether he's a good guy or not, and whether Diane Feinstein approves or not, the selection is borderline dereliction of duty on Obama's part.

ahh well – who needs intelligence when you've got Obama to out-speech our enemies?

joshua   January 5th, 2009 6:34 pm ET

Yeah, ya know is it really too much to ask to have someone with:

A. experience in the field they will be in charge of, and

B. someone that is in no way affiliated with Bill Clinton?

I mean really, who is going to be the next SOC candidate, Cindy Sheehan? Is he using a blindfold and a dartboard? At least Mike Brown had experience with something, even if it was raising horses.

Howard Roark   January 5th, 2009 6:31 pm ET

A transition team loaded with lobbyists…a cabinet already loaded with entrenched Washington politicians…and now Leon Panetta…yep, change you can believe in!

LYNETTE IN CA   January 5th, 2009 6:30 pm ET

One more thing …Diane needs to make her comments to the President Elect first rather than having a press conference. If she wants to pick, she should run for President some day, but that will never happen. Maybe she thought he should have chosen her!!! LOL

MorningStar   January 5th, 2009 6:30 pm ET

Ya ya old lady, stop crying.

BL   January 5th, 2009 6:29 pm ET

Hooray Barbara Campbell! You say it so well. Let's stand behind our President Elect and let him demonstrate his abilities.

Lynn in NM   January 5th, 2009 6:29 pm ET

Wow!! Feinstein disagrees with Obama?? Obama is a Democrat. What's the problem??? I can see it if she was a Republican, but come on! He hasn't even taken office yet and there is a break in the ranks??? Not good.

Karen - Missouri   January 5th, 2009 6:28 pm ET

Isn't this Obama's decision to make? Who made Feinstein queen?

LYNETTE IN CA   January 5th, 2009 6:28 pm ET

Panetta wasn't put in to necessarily know intelligence, but more to clean up the problems w/n the organization. They've had so many mistakes there that they need an outstanding administrator!!!

California Gold   January 5th, 2009 6:27 pm ET

Well said Melissa B ~ California. This article shows a snarky side of Ms. Feinstein that is unattractive. She is still a very powerful politician.

Marc PDX   January 5th, 2009 6:24 pm ET

Well, this is exactly why a lot of us voted against Obama, despite his vast experience and extensive connections in Washington and throughout the world. Face it, he has no experience. Inside a good looking, well spoken man, is the same naive guy who never realized Rev. Wright was a racist. Who didn't have the acumen to see a problem (politically) with having friends like Ayers and Rezko. I know, I know… those topics are off limits. It's a buzz kill for the hope & change crowd. But now he has been elected and this part doesn't come on a script. Sad that we live in an age where popular culture guides our politics. We have declined a great deal over the last 50 years. But, it's your world and welcome to it.

Mike   January 5th, 2009 6:23 pm ET

This is another poor pick by Obama.
Another person who does not have the know-how to be in position that he/she is appointed for.

Thank goodness Gov. Bill Richardson is outta here! There are a couple more than should follow him out the door as soon as possible……….

Puff   January 5th, 2009 6:23 pm ET

Oh boy, change we can believe in!!! All you hope dopers who voted this clown into office will rue the day I am sure of that. Head of the CIA? Give me a break. What a joke this guy is turning out to be. Empty suit, racist, radical, un-american. Yeah, change we can believe in.

Patty in the CA mountains   January 5th, 2009 6:20 pm ET

I would think ego and pride would take a back seat to pressing issues at this time….Ms Feinstein needs to be cooperative rather than combative….her "I just heard of this….he didn't ask me" sounds petty and childish….I would rather not have someone in that seat that is a "company" man right now….bring in new blood like Paneta that doesn't already have established loyalties and ties to those that went before him and got us into this mess. Maybe Ms Feinstein can help Paneta "learn the ropes"….oh wait, she's the NEW head of this committee….

CNN This Was Not a Slam   January 5th, 2009 6:20 pm ET

Feinstein was a little miffed, but a "Slam". Do you people read your own copy?

FreeNLovIt   January 5th, 2009 6:19 pm ET

To Marc

Of course Hillary won, but I'm glad Obama is the Prez. He is the better of the three candidates. He'll manage and they'll work for him.

Genius is eternal patience – Michelangelo

Georgia Peach   January 5th, 2009 6:19 pm ET

This is the first questionable appointment in my eyes. A man who was chief of staff to lead one of the most intriquite intelligence organization of this country.
Someone mentioned "why would someone need to have experience in intelligence? Would you choose waste management to lead your medical team. Maybe as a analyst coming in but to lead this agency? Donovan the creator of the CIA would turn over in his grave. There are many fine individuals who have served the agency with valor and understanding of the world of intell. It is a total different environment than the corporate or political environment.
Diane Feinstein as the head of the intelligence Committee has a right to question this appointment, it is her job. I voted for Pres. Obama as a Republican but may I remind the folks here we did not vote for a King or and Emporer who can deal freely, we still have congress and the senate in place for checks and balances. This is nothing against Obama but everyone can make a bad decision and no one is immune to it. He needed to get together with some of the folks on the hill especially on this appointment besides the boys from Chicago and his transition team. And all the age discriminatory comments, some day you all will be "old hacks too".

janine   January 5th, 2009 6:17 pm ET

I honestly could care less what Feinstein thinks about Obama's nominations. If she knows everything, then she should have ran for President. I can't stand back seat drivers.

Matt, Chico, CA   January 5th, 2009 6:16 pm ET

Who cares what Dianne Feinstein thinks? The only way she came to power was when she BECAME (not elected) Mayor of SF (which has completely lost touch with reality) after Harvey Milk and George Moscone were killed. She is irrelevant.

BUSH BEGONE, AND NOW 75% OF AMERICA AGREES, FINALLY!   January 5th, 2009 6:16 pm ET

Not a good career move on the part of Feinstein complaining to the media.

She could spend the next 4 years in the equivalent of the Senate's woodshed.

Tom   January 5th, 2009 6:14 pm ET

Mrs. Frinstein what you think or feel don't really matter Mr Obama is the next president and he nominates who he wants, so when you get to be the president you can then nominate who you want also.

Objective thinking   January 5th, 2009 6:14 pm ET

Those of you insulting Feinstein: How about giving a logical argument against her criticism of the pick? Between a woman saying "The CIA Director should be a person with professional intelligence experience" and someone saying "The person saying this should shut up," whose argument do you think is more convincing and logical?

And "Democratic voter" who posted at "January 5th, 2009 5:30 pm ET," As the article pointed out, Obama did not call her in the first place. She found about this pick through her aides who found out through the newspaper. If the media is how Obama lets her know about his pick, then the media is she can let Obama know what she thinks about it.

Karen   January 5th, 2009 6:13 pm ET

The way this is going I cant wait for 2012….then get all the crooks out after you've learned your lesson

robert williams   January 5th, 2009 6:13 pm ET

To adequately defend and best protect our country from those who would harm us, one would expect those most seasoned and experienced in the intelligence community to be among those from whom a CIA chief is chosen. Though Leon Panetta is an outstanding American, I'm unaware of any such distinctly essential and clearly indispensable experience in his background.

kayla   January 5th, 2009 6:12 pm ET

pres. elect. does not have to let you know whom he is selecting. he is the pres. elect. thank you.

Marc PDX   January 5th, 2009 6:12 pm ET

This Democratic administration and Congress is looking sillier every day. As in the Keystone Kops. And just to prove the point to us all, Obama has just nominated Al Franken as the Secretary of Comedy. LOL! Thank you all for making Bush look good!

Aida   January 5th, 2009 6:12 pm ET

Ms. Feinstein did voice her concerns to BO before he made his choice. His mistake was not informing her of his decision before making it public. After all, she is the chairwoman of the Senate Intelligence committee. Another sign that BO does not have total respect for women or the proper political protocol to be president. Ted, John Kerry, talk to your puppet – pull those strings in before he does more damage to the democrats he needs on his side.

Dianne Feinstein is a smart woman. She should be respected as a senior member of the senate. I am proud to have her represent California.

Deb   January 5th, 2009 6:12 pm ET

Who cares if Feinstein agree….Last time I checked Obama was the President Elect. I'm sure he is going to make alot of decisions the old crew will not like but change is never easy…….. PE the majority of the people are behind you!!!!!!!

mary, colorado springs   January 5th, 2009 6:11 pm ET

Don't judge the man before he is even in office. Just because he doesn't have experience in the intelligence field isn't a foregone conclusion he will not be efficient in performing what is necessary for the position. Anyone going into a new position will be a novice until they have been in that position for awhile. Give the man and all the others he has chosen a chance before screaming "help".

Diana   January 5th, 2009 6:09 pm ET

Who's picking all these people Clinton or Obama its going to be Clinton years for the next 4 years and that wasn't great big change huh maybe next he might pick Monica for a title

Ms. Smith   January 5th, 2009 6:08 pm ET

Nothing inappropriate about a Senator responsible for intelligence matters (Feinstein) becing consulted first, before an appointment was made; nor is it inappropriate for her, as said senator, to voice her objection and the reasoning for it (which she did) Some of you supporting Obama seem to think it necessary to "destroy" verbally any credibility in a belief in the Constitutional doctrine of balance of power. The President represents the Executive Branch, one important part of our government. Senators and House Representatives were originally intended, by our Founders, as representing the most important branch — Congress. So, why not educate yourselves a little more and shoot off at the mouth a little less about issues some of you seem unbelievable ignorant of.

Marc PDX   January 5th, 2009 6:08 pm ET

LOL…pretty soon the only person in this administration that is not from the Clinton administration will be Obama. So, Hillary really did win this thing after all!

Franky   January 5th, 2009 6:08 pm ET

She can reject this position for all I care, LOL!! What is she gonna do, huh? Give a essay on how to be a member of the CIA?? LOL!!!

Wow, I'm scarred of her, she looks more tough than Gov Palin…

robert williams   January 5th, 2009 6:07 pm ET

To adequately defend and best protect our country from those who would harm us, one would expect those americans most seasoned and experienced in the intelligence community to be among those from whom a CIA chief is chosen. I'm unaware of any such distinctly essential and clearly indispensable experience in Leon Panetta's background.

Jason   January 5th, 2009 6:05 pm ET

Feinstein needs to shut up and keep quiet or she will get the boot. She's another useless politician and we need to bring in people that know how to fix our problems and Barack has done a great with that thus far.

Sarge in Florida   January 5th, 2009 6:04 pm ET

Senator Feinstein, since when does President elect Obama needed your permission? I'm a Democrat and the people that voters choose in California amazes me…Regan, Nancy, Arnold…I agree with Dr. Miami that all elected officials should be termed limited…We always need new and fresh blood in there..We are in the 21st century and have members of congress who are still thinking the way they did in the 19th and 20th century's..Some so old that they need help getting to the podium…LOL

Joan , Ontario   January 5th, 2009 6:04 pm ET

Did the chairman of all of the other committees know of the selections before they were announced? Probably not. She seems to think she was slighted because of her importance but maybe they have a policy of not telling anyone outside of their circle to keep leaks from spilling out. She should be supporting her President now more than at any other time. Did she want the job herself?

Marc PDX   January 5th, 2009 6:03 pm ET

What a surprise that Obama doesn't know what he's doing! It takes more than "hope" and a slogan to actually be the president. Look at his resume! (Oh, there isn't one.) Didn't any of you learn ANYTHING from the failure of the Bush presidency? You just elected jimmy carter back into office because he promised everything would be wonderful (again). “Those who don't learn from history, are doomed to repeat it”.

Preston   January 5th, 2009 6:03 pm ET

Sen. Feinstein's idea of a worthy nominee was John Roberts for Chief Justice. It should also be recalled that she was an ardent supporter of Hillary Clinton as the party's nominee. Thanks, Dianne, for going so far out of your way to criticize publicly our next President. Perhaps you should keep your ego and your unfortunate self-serving opinions to yourself.

Al Ram   January 5th, 2009 6:02 pm ET

Senator Feinstein if you want a CIA director that you like, please run for the presidency and if you win you will have the chance to appoint one. Else, accept it.

Vicki5   January 5th, 2009 6:01 pm ET

Oh, I didn't realize she has to approve. I still think her "I am God" attitute isn't going to help her any. She should have listened BEFORE she spoke out.

ran   January 5th, 2009 6:00 pm ET

Based on what I have seen so far he or really anyone else could do no worse. Maybe we need someone who doesn't have a lot of " intelligence experience" to run the department the right way.

Matt   January 5th, 2009 6:00 pm ET

@ Maria

I hardly think Feinstein's bitter blather bothers the rest of the Senate. It's just sour grapes that she didn't get the nod…well, that and a little free press via some fabricated controversy.

Arkansas Undertaker   January 5th, 2009 5:58 pm ET

I didnt know that the President Elect had to check with Senator Fienstein on the decisions of the people he wants in his cabinet, Not who she feels has the most experience as head of the Intelligence Committee.

Godfrey   January 5th, 2009 5:58 pm ET

If anybody thinks that Obama marches to the beat of a master, you are simply clueless!

And if you think he is inexperienced, you are brain dead!

Feinstein just does not get it……

Obama is not her boy, but her Master!

CLINTON in 2016   January 5th, 2009 5:57 pm ET

Respect isn't handed out. It's earned. And I think with her lifetime of experience, she has every right to chastise the incoming President elect. His total lack of respect for her, is evidenced in his lack of communication.

David Axelrod can run your campaign, but now you've got to run your administration.

When will he be vetted?

Giving pretty, rhetorical speeches on race will earn my attention…but not my respect.

You're no messiah.

Sidney P.   January 5th, 2009 5:56 pm ET

Why can't everyone just chill and give Obama and his cabinet picks a little time. I mean after all some of you idots gave Bush a second term…..so shut up!!!!!!

change in America   January 5th, 2009 5:54 pm ET

Who care what Feinstein say she need to get kick out door feinstein need to be in the unemployment line who do she think she is.

mcd   January 5th, 2009 5:53 pm ET

In response to some posts here – the senate must approve cabinet level appointments as well as certain agency appointments – this is to balance the power between the Legislative and Executive branch – it is scary how people feel qualified to dismiss what Senator Feinstein states when she is only doing her job – without senate approval no high ranking cabinet, etc. appointment can be made – It is even scarier how little so many Obama supporters know about how our founding father's set up our three branch system of government and how the "process" actually works

Otis   January 5th, 2009 5:53 pm ET

Is this the change that was voted for? Is this the reaching across party lines we voted for? Even Dems are posting here in a very divisive way further demonstrating it is D v R. Well done, President Clinton…I mean Obama. Blind loyalty yet again.

John, Brooklyn, New York   January 5th, 2009 5:53 pm ET

Go Senator Feinsten!

Barack Obama promised to reach across the aisle to make important decisions. Surprise, surprise. So far he's only demonstrated that he willing to across the aisle to appease Republicans while giving the back of his hand to his own party (as in Feinstein) or throwing them under the proverbial bus (as in the GLBT community and the selection of Rick Warren to participate in the inauguration).

Those who are criticizing Feinstein should check their constiution. Panetta must be approved by the Senate – and, along the way, by the Feinstein's Intelligence Committee.

Matt   January 5th, 2009 5:53 pm ET

@ Van

Not long enough…but thankfully, he gets to try for another 4 as well.

Vicki5   January 5th, 2009 5:53 pm ET

Who is she (or who does she think she is) to demand that she know in advance and approve of an appointment?

Paul in Austin   January 5th, 2009 5:52 pm ET

It is bizarre to watch PE Obama filling the cabinet by shoehorning Clinton retreads into positions for they are poorly suited. These clearly are not the best that can be had and it just emphasizes that these appointments are being made as political horse trading and payback. I had hoped for a merit based approach, but those hopes are fading fast. We will all suffer for this continuation of politics as usual.

Dublin Joe   January 5th, 2009 5:52 pm ET

Or.. in the words of Jerry Seinfeld… the very fact that you're opposed to this makes me think it's a good idea.

FreeNLovIt   January 5th, 2009 5:52 pm ET

Obama just needs someone to collect information for him. The CIA Director does not have the final say. It's Obama.

Dublin Joe   January 5th, 2009 5:52 pm ET

Difi just wants someone she and her husband know in that position so they can funnel more intel money into her retirement account.

Leon Panetta is a decent and honourable man, exactly what the CIA needs.

a southern bell   January 5th, 2009 5:51 pm ET

TIME TO UNCHAIR THE OLD CROW.

THEN SHE CAN GO IN THE FIELD WITH THE OTHER

CROWS & CROW AS MUCH AS SHE WANTS. ALZHEIMERS

SETTING IN. WE ELECTED OBAMA PRESIDENT, NOT HER.

SHE IS A GREAT EXAMPLE FOR SENATE TERM LIMITS.

Robin   January 5th, 2009 5:51 pm ET

I agree with Feinstein. We are in precarius times. We can't have someone "making it up as he goes". This was a poor choice for the head of the CIA.

Besides, terrorists first bombed the World Trade Center in 1993. Clinton's watch. They failed and spent the next 8 years perfecting the next attack, which sadly, went off without a hitch. These people did not just wake up on 9/11/01 and say, "Let's go hijack some planes."

I for one would feel alot safer with another choice in the CIA who will keep us all safe from future attacks.

Go ahead Proud American. Call me an Idiot.

Hammer   January 5th, 2009 5:50 pm ET

Please, you must not question the GREAT ONE.

Bob   January 5th, 2009 5:50 pm ET

Welcome back to the Clinton Administration! No fooling around with cigars Mr. Obama

Jeff Brown   January 5th, 2009 5:50 pm ET

This is coming from the woman who rolled over time and again for Bush… Go away lady!

FreeNLovIt   January 5th, 2009 5:49 pm ET

Oh dear, Panetta is fine for the position. We need someone who can manage and coordinate these departments. Panetta will do a great job. Obama has three strong KNOTS backing him up (Gates, Jones and Clinton) already. There is nothing to fear. He cant be any WORSE than that other previous director that had gottena MEDAL from Bush.

Charles Atlanta   January 5th, 2009 5:49 pm ET

Good. Bring back the check and balance between these two branches. We missed that during the Bush administration..

Mike, Syracuse NY   January 5th, 2009 5:49 pm ET

Democratic Voter, what's wrong with transparency? Isn't that what the Obameister wanted. Well, he got it!

Alan   January 5th, 2009 5:49 pm ET

And — let's see. Bush made ALL the right cabinet choices, right? Remember him? The guy who's STILL in office and STILL in charge and STILL responsible for all things that happen (i.e. "the buck stops here — unless I'm a Republican"). It seems Bush had to REPLACE WRONG CHOICES several times during the past 8 years. Too many to count. Those who weren't replaced mucked up so badly they needed to be replaced.

Give Obama a chance. Stop being the armchair quarterbacks it seems ALL of you think you are. As one brilliant poster said here — if you know so much, why didn't you run for president? You might have gotten 2 or 3 votes — if your relatives are allowed to vote.

norb   January 5th, 2009 5:49 pm ET

Still mad that her choice( Hillary) didn't win. Why would anyone make her head of the intelligence committee anyway?

cabianni   January 5th, 2009 5:49 pm ET

Democrats eviscerated the CIA and the result was 9-11. So let's appoint a political operative who knows nothing about the Intelligence world to head the CIA.

Belle   January 5th, 2009 5:49 pm ET

Geez…usually HISTORY dictates whether a president is great or not…NOT bloggers.

I concur that Leon Panetta, although I like him personally, doesn't have the know how to be CIA Chief.

What a time for inexperience….with all of his good picks, this one is not only surprising, but worrisome.

barbara campbell   January 5th, 2009 5:48 pm ET

President-elect Obama demonstrated his judgment, intelligence, and political skills in running the best election campaign in history, defeating the Clinton machine and rising above everything the Republicans threw at him (or made up about him).

He's now applying his intelligence and skills, in consultation with knowledgeable advisers, to the decisions he has to make. Everyone from Dianne Feinstein to ignorant bloggers are second-guessing his decisions, thinking they know better, before he's even taken office.

Rather than bicker over every move Obama makes, let's give him our support at this critical time in history and wait to see how he and his staff go about running the country.

I suspect that most of the critical comments on these blogs originate with Republican talking points or Republican hostility toward Democrats in general. We have become a very angry, divided country over the last eight years.

Gays for Obama   January 5th, 2009 5:48 pm ET

There's no fool like an old fool.

Maria   January 5th, 2009 5:47 pm ET

I find these comments amusing – Most posters fail to realize that the Senate must approve the appointments as CIA director – that is why the President can only NOMINATE the candidate. If this appointment does not get the Senate's approval Mr. Panetta will not get the position – It's called "Balance of Power" – it's what our founding father's fought for to prevent any President from having too much power – sorry Obama supporters – he will merely be President, not King.

Melissa B ~ California   January 5th, 2009 5:47 pm ET

@dr.mimi de la cruz,
California already has term limits, so unless Feinstein watches her step now before she runs for a different office in the future, she'll be on the losing end quicker than you can say Eureka!

the idiot   January 5th, 2009 5:46 pm ET

California is cursed with two idiotic socialist senators. As someone else on this board said, they present an excellent case for term limits. Because George Soros and ACORN stole the elections for the libs does not make them qualified to sit on the intelligence committee.

John P   January 5th, 2009 5:46 pm ET

Ms. Feinstein needs to shut up. She pushed Michael Mukasey on us and has the nerve to complain about anything?

Pam   January 5th, 2009 5:45 pm ET

Maybe Feinstein should run for president and win. Then she can pick whoever she wants.

alvino   January 5th, 2009 5:45 pm ET

Jenny-
No person in this world could ever make Bush look good.

Rob, Ohio   January 5th, 2009 5:45 pm ET

If people really understood what this position is and what is required for success, they'd be praising Feinstein to high heaven for what she's saying. Putting someone into this top job who is NOT an intelligence professional is going to be a major problem…this is NOT a job for a bureaucrat.

David , MA   January 5th, 2009 5:45 pm ET

While I also belive Obama should have picked someone with experience in itelligence Its his choice who he picks. Yes it would have been right to inform the itelligence committe chairman of his choice but ultimately Obama makes the final decision for his administration. The Senate will have there day with hearings and will have the ultimate decision as whether to confirm him.

Van - Bloomington, Ill.   January 5th, 2009 5:44 pm ET

Matt… it's going to be a LONG 4 years for all of us.

DAB   January 5th, 2009 5:44 pm ET

JOHN WHITE spell "no" correctly.

DAB   January 5th, 2009 5:43 pm ET

Change? Where is the "change?"

Ron LeGuin   January 5th, 2009 5:43 pm ET

We have people in this world trying to kill us every day. I am sure the
"dark" side is excited to know we just appointed a politician to head the CIA! I actually was beginning to feel good about Obama and his
choices until this blunder. God help us all.

Hookdriver   January 5th, 2009 5:43 pm ET

Certainly another Clinton Administration veteran will bring new spice to our covert operations, considering their experience in them. Probably bring some pretty nifty fundraising skills, too.

Melissa B ~ California   January 5th, 2009 5:42 pm ET

Dianne Feinstein should show a little more respect for our newly elected president and stop her tongue-wagging, before she finds that the Californians who elected her decide that they've had enough of her questionable leadership and badly timed remarks, and end her career as a politician in the Golden State. Maybe she is disappointed she didn't get the job, but when in doubt Dianne–shut your pie hole!

Mike, Syracuse NY   January 5th, 2009 5:41 pm ET

TexAnnie. I bet you've NEVER made any bad comments about Bush right? Things will be coming at Obama faster and faster now. He won't have weeks to think about everything move. He'll have to either react faster, or we all go down. You're starting to see why experience matters. The CIA isn't just another typical political appointee's job. As we saw in Iraq, bad intelligence can cause mistakes. Put an amateur in charge, and you are just asking for trouble.

(Former) Lifelong Republican for Obama, Columbia, TN   January 5th, 2009 5:41 pm ET

I don't like this pick either and I tend to agree with Feinstein, who I deeply respect. I wish the Obama team would have contacted her first about this pick. Still, I think that if the Obama team picked this man I want to give him the benefit of the doubt and I think Feinstein should too.

Sumitra Deb   January 5th, 2009 5:41 pm ET

I forgot; who is the President-Elect?

Do you really want to listen to this war-monger???

thrixdog   January 5th, 2009 5:40 pm ET

Oh yes, he will be respected, you don't come out of Chicago politics and be weak. He's bidding his time until inaugeration. After that, I'm sure some of these spotting off cngressmen and women will be told behind closed doors, something akin to the metaphor of the "train", you can ride on the train or you can be part of the tracks, either way the train is comimg through.

Sumitra Deb   January 5th, 2009 5:39 pm ET

Do you really want to listen to this war-monger Feinstein?

ED   January 5th, 2009 5:38 pm ET

WHO IS PRESIDENT ?BILL CLINTON?????

Confused   January 5th, 2009 5:38 pm ET

Vote for change, whats' changing? Same old weary faces.

Californian   January 5th, 2009 5:36 pm ET

Well…I think california deserves a person of integrity representing them…why isn't Feinstein resigning?

Sincerely,
Californian who HATES Feinstein (what a waste of flesh that lady is!)

JOHN WHITE   January 5th, 2009 5:36 pm ET

HE'S BARACK HE CAN DO KNOW HARM! LETS CONCENTRATE ON THE BIGGER ISSUES PEOPLE. HATERS WILL BE HATERS AND ANYBODY DISSIN OBAMA IS A HATER. GO BARACK THE BEST PRESIDENT IN MODERN HISTORY! WATCH!

Matt   January 5th, 2009 5:36 pm ET

@ Tim

If you think Obama does not have "well honed political skills" then you have NOT been paying attention. Seriously. He obliterated the entire GOP…admittedly with a nice dose of help from the last 8 years of GOP control…but he spun the entire political game in this country on its head and is continuing to do so.

It's gonna be a long 4 years for some of you people.

David Clark   January 5th, 2009 5:36 pm ET

Lucky you Feinstein you objected to this as aSenator, but the moderator of this forum would have nixed you if you posted a comment. long live fascism at CNN

De Ja Vu all over again   January 5th, 2009 5:36 pm ET

I'm confused did Bill Clinton get elected again?,Seems to be a huge amount of reruns that were not stars in their last jobs.

Grant in Canada   January 5th, 2009 5:35 pm ET

Wow . . . how arrogant is that on Feinstein's part? I wish I could handle the "official response" to this one……LOL

"Senator Feinstein's advice was not required for PE Obama to make the decision on his next CIA Direstor. Ms. Feinsteins views are well documented and known to the Transition Team. Sen. Feinstein's only input to the decision is the one vote she holds in the confirmation process."

When pressed for details, the spokesman offered this additional observation, "If Ms. Feinstein wants to name a cabinet, she needs to run for executive office."

Darth Vadik, CA   January 5th, 2009 5:34 pm ET

Good for Al, he did not let Coleman steal his seat. You just cant be nice with Republican politicians, you know what they say, "you give them an inch, they will take a mile."

Not this time.

Jimmie   January 5th, 2009 5:34 pm ET

She's a very liberal, but a very smart individual. I agree with the California Senator's statements. I would never support Barbara Boxer, but I more than definitely agree with her on this issue.

Panetta didn't serve well in the Clinton Administration, so why would he do any better in an Obama Administration?

Oh…and that remind me, here's ANOTHER member of Clinton's cabinet coming into Obama's. Come on President-Elect Obama, be yourself. Don't follow Bill Clinton's horrid path.

Will-South Dakota   January 5th, 2009 5:34 pm ET

SO WHAT DIANE!!!

Mike, Syracuse NY   January 5th, 2009 5:34 pm ET

Sen. Feinstein. You forgot, experience doesn't matter, just judgement. Don't worry, I'm sure they'll have another gallon of Obama koolade to you ASAP.

Nebraskan   January 5th, 2009 5:33 pm ET

She "slammed" him? Exaggeration much?

Matt   January 5th, 2009 5:32 pm ET

I think what she meant to say was "My position has consistently been that I believe the Agency is best-served by having ME in charge at this time.”

JB   January 5th, 2009 5:32 pm ET

I think ms. feinstein forgot who's the president, and who's the senator. Back off Di.

karen-phoenix   January 5th, 2009 5:32 pm ET

Penatta was picked for his organizational and business skills. He's a great organizer and I do believe the CIA needs a lot of revamping!!!

Patricia in Las Vegas   January 5th, 2009 5:31 pm ET

She looks like she is having a hissy fit in this picture. Is she still mad that Hillary wasn't the presidential nominee? Just curious what her qualification are …. In 1985, at a press conference, she revealed details about the hunt for Richard Ramírez, otherwise known as the Night Stalker, and in so doing angered detectives by giving away details of his crimes, including displaying actual evidence at the press conference. These revelations subverted their investigation and Ramirez left the San Francisco area to commit another murder before he was finally captured in the Los Angeles area

pretty darn scary!!!!

melvin   January 5th, 2009 5:31 pm ET

I DONT CARE

Dave in NYC   January 5th, 2009 5:30 pm ET

she's just mad because she found out by reading the NY TImes… guess what Sen. Feinstein, YOU are not the one we elected to make there choices!

ironmen1987   January 5th, 2009 5:30 pm ET

I've said from the start that i didn't believe the "old guard" dems wanted Obama but they knew he was their best shot at the White House. Repubs didnt want Palin but they needed the christian/womens votes. You can put on a fresh coat of paint but its still an old house….

Matt   January 5th, 2009 5:30 pm ET

Methinks someone is angry she wasn't nominated.

30m-PA-voted Clinton then McCain   January 5th, 2009 5:30 pm ET

I've always said Obama had poor judgement. Here's yet another example.

Democratic voter   January 5th, 2009 5:30 pm ET

Ms. Feinstein could have found a better way to communicate with Mr. Obama about her concerns. It's not like there aren't enough communications devices. Last time I looked, phones seemed to work pretty well.

TexAnnie *-*-*-*-*   January 5th, 2009 5:29 pm ET

You all are all such experts on everything political. Maybe one of you should have run for President. I'm sure you would have gotten at least 2 or 3 votes.

Larry in Houston   January 5th, 2009 5:29 pm ET

He was the chief of staff, in the clinton years, so he's got experience.

Meka   January 5th, 2009 5:29 pm ET

My understanding, PE Obama dosen't need the approval of Congress in making his Cabinet Selections.

Congress has the authority to "DISMISS" any Appointment, once the Appointment comes before them!

Former Republican   January 5th, 2009 5:29 pm ET

WHERE WAS THE OLD HACK WHEN BUSH WAS TARING

THE CONSTITUTION & OUR ECONOMY TO PIECES ???

To Larry:   January 5th, 2009 5:28 pm ET

It would be better to consult with the committees on the hill

David   January 5th, 2009 5:28 pm ET

proud American- you don't have to be GOP to read what is going on. You must be an idiot not to see.

john   January 5th, 2009 5:28 pm ET

Nice. No intelligence "experience". Bush's war in Iraq is loaded with people like this. Probably good people, but don't have the experience for the job. History always seems to repeat itself

Eric   January 5th, 2009 5:28 pm ET

Obama's inexperience is showing already.

Even Diane Feinstein knows that was a BAD CHOICE. Why don't they just bring back Slick Willy as President seeing how Obama's has picked all his cabinet members from that administration.

I thought Barry was different than the other lying politicians…his change isn't change.

dr.mimi de la cruz   January 5th, 2009 5:27 pm ET

WE HAVE TO PUT IN SENATE TERM LIMITS.

THAT WOULD GET RID OF HACKS LIKE FEINSTINE WHO

THINK THE PRESIDENT IS AT THEIR BECK & CALLING.

MAD   January 5th, 2009 5:27 pm ET

I wish all our politicians would just stop with the knee jerk reactions everytime PE Obama makes a decision. Shut up already and hear the man out.

Jenny   January 5th, 2009 5:27 pm ET

Thank God someone in Washington has sense! Of course you hire a person with the actual skills and training and experience to do the job they are hired to do…you want an intelligence leader, you look for someone with that kind of background…not someone from a totally different professional background…like economics.

What is going on with these ludicrous appointments…oh, I know…Obama must be repaying big contributors to his campaign by putting people in jobs they aren't qualified for…didn't people say that Bush did that? And wasn't all that supposed to change with a new administration? Big change!

In fact, Obama is making Bush look good.

David   January 5th, 2009 5:26 pm ET

Mr. Obama has now become so obvious. The puppet marches to the beat. To do this just blew your cover. You are just the posterboy.

sick n tired   January 5th, 2009 5:26 pm ET

Not a big Feinstein fan myself, But I have to agree with her! (ouch that hurts)!

BJ   January 5th, 2009 5:26 pm ET

FINALLY…something I and my Senator agree on…

Objective thinking   January 5th, 2009 5:25 pm ET

Proud American–why don't you contribute something intelligent for once, instead of your partisan drivel?

Liz in CA   January 5th, 2009 5:24 pm ET

Leon Panetta is one of the most intelligence, resourceful, and HONEST people ever to have been a public servant. I welcome his return to public service. There's no one I'd trust more at the helm of CIA. Get over it Feinstein….only reason for you to take this public is you are miffed you didn't get "consulted". The president elect doesn't consult on his picks with congress madam. Get on board or get run over by the train of progress!

Thanks but no thanks Diane   January 5th, 2009 5:24 pm ET

Is this the same Feinstein, who was hesitant on what torture is and not.

david goldman   January 5th, 2009 5:23 pm ET

MAYBE OUR PEBO DIDN'T GET THE MEMO THAT HE NEEDS TO

CONFER WITH FEINESTEIN BEFORE MAKING ANY APPOINTMENTS.

AFTER ALL SHE IS A SENATOR & HE IS MERELY THE PRESIDENT.

Adreanna   January 5th, 2009 5:22 pm ET

Yet another politician with "hoof in mouth" disease! Surprising! It is always best to be swift hear and slow to speak. I take it Ms. Feinstein didn't learn that one!

Mike, Syracuse NY   January 5th, 2009 5:21 pm ET

Proud American, Can you do anything else but call Republicans idiots? Not vetting a choice with the relevant committee chair is an amateur mistake, and won't be Obama's last. It's what you get when you put someone without the right experience in a job that's over his head.

Larry   January 5th, 2009 5:21 pm ET

Well Dianne…

When your the President you can make the choices that you think are the best

Until then, just do your job

Tim   January 5th, 2009 5:21 pm ET

Ouch.

Why do you need someone with intelligence experience to run our intelligence office? We picked someone without well honed political skills or foreign policy skills to run the country.

Kurt C.   January 5th, 2009 5:19 pm ET

The only idiots are Panetta and Obama for thinking Panetta is up to doing this job.

Mike, Syracuse NY   January 5th, 2009 5:18 pm ET

Oops. Forget to kiss the right butts Obama?

Bob   January 5th, 2009 5:17 pm ET

More power to you Dianne !

I never thought I would ever agree with her on anything.

Dena   January 5th, 2009 5:17 pm ET

Is she worried that he's Catholic? Really – I have to worry about what's Not being said here.

Ron - Saint Louis   January 5th, 2009 5:17 pm ET

Very odd that President Obama didn't speak with the incoming Chairman of the Intelligence Committee. Something seems wrong with this picture as he has been so transparent up to this point that this appointment seems to go against his previous actions.

Hey Now   January 5th, 2009 5:14 pm ET

And the Senate would be best served by having term limits to avoid career hacks like Feinstein.

canuck   January 5th, 2009 5:14 pm ET

operation chaos. i love it!

Soccer Nana   January 5th, 2009 5:14 pm ET

Feinstein needs to be quiet and LISTEN before she speaks. A sign that PE Obama will not be respected. Pitiful.

Proud American   January 5th, 2009 5:10 pm ET

Republicans please don't read something else into this. I can just see you Idiots now.

Mobius   January 5th, 2009 5:10 pm ET

Feinstein? Intelligence? FAIL

Scariest part is that I agree with her. Yikes.

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