DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL INTELLIGENCE
WASHINGTON, DC 20511
November 15, 2017
DNI Coats Statement on Departure of NCTC Director Nick Rasmussen
After more than three years of distinguished leadership as the Director of the National Counterterrorism Center, Nick Rasmussen has informed me of his decision to depart federal service at the end of this year.
Nick is deeply committed to the counterterrorism mission and has skillfully guided the nation through an evolving and complex terrorism threat environment. His service through the Bush, Obama, and Trump administrations has provided essential experience, wisdom, and continuity for the counterterrorism community. With 27 years in government, Nick is a dedicated public servant who served in senior roles at the State Department and the White House before coming to lead NCTC. The Trump administration’s request for Nick to remain as NCTC Director is a testament to his outstanding tenure.
As DNI, I am personally grateful for both Nick’s steadfast leadership of NCTC and his wise counsel. His deep understanding of the intelligence needed to support senior decision makers has been invaluable, and he will be greatly missed as a leader in the intelligence and counterterrorism communities. Please join me in wishing Nick well as he begins the next chapter in his professional life.
Until the President nominates a successor, NCTC Deputy Director Russ Travers will serve as Acting Director upon Nick’s departure in late December.
Daniel R. Coats, Director of National Intelligence