A Georgetown University professor and former CIA intelligence analyst, Dr. John Gentry, has warned that the politicization of the intelligence community and its focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are significant concerns. In his recently published book “Neutering the CIA: Why US Intelligence Versus Trump Has Long-Term Consequences”, Gentry claims these factors could lead to interference in the 2024 elections.
“My guess is that the the proverbial deep state within the intelligence community will reemerge because presumably a Republican candidate will again be seen as a threat to the internal policies that many intelligence people like,” said Gentry, who discussed the response to the Hunter Biden laptop story, falsely “debunked” by 51 former intelligence officials in a letter approved by the CIA. The approval of this letter was a clear political move intended to aid the Biden campaign, according to Gentry.
Gentry also expressed concern over DEI policies in key intelligence agencies, including the CIA, arguing they detract from operational efficiency and promote a politically charged agenda. He points to the introduction of these policies under President Obama as significantly transforming the federal workforce. While Gentry admits internal political discussions were not as prevalent during his time in the CIA, agency sources say activism became commonplace under Obama. This shift, facilitated by figures like former CIA Director John Brennan and ex-Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, has reportedly negatively impacted employee morale. Gentry says his hope is that his book will enlighten readers about the “significant political problem within the agencies.”