Centennial William H. Webster, the sole individual to have headed both the FBI and CIA, has voiced strong opposition to President-elect Trump's choices for FBI Director and Director of National Intelligence (DNI). In a letter addressed to senators, Webster questioned the qualifications of Kash Patel and Tulsi Gabbard for these critical roles.

Webster's primary concern regarding Patel centers on his perceived loyalty to Trump, potentially compromising the FBI's impartiality. He expressed apprehension that Patel's history of adhering to presidential directives could prioritize personal allegiance over the rule of law, setting a dangerous precedent for an agency responsible for unbiased justice enforcement.

Webster also critiqued Gabbard's nomination, citing her limited experience in intelligence matters. He emphasized the need for a seasoned leader with extensive expertise to navigate the complexities of global threats and maintain vital international alliances. He argued that a lack of such experience could jeopardize the nation's ability to protect sensitive information and cooperate effectively with other countries.

The Trump transition team defended Patel, emphasizing his constitutional loyalty and service under both Presidents Obama and Trump in national security roles. They also pointed out Webster's past support for President Biden and Vice President Harris. Regarding Gabbard, the transition team highlighted her two decades of military service and congressional experience, asserting her understanding of high-level intelligence consumption and the importance of international partnerships for national security.

Patel's role as lead investigator in the congressional probe into alleged Trump-Russia collusion, where he exposed government surveillance abuses, has drawn both praise and criticism. His outspokenness against perceived partisanship within the FBI and Justice Department has raised concerns among some law enforcement professionals. Gabbard's 2017 meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and her initial reluctance to label him a war criminal have also drawn scrutiny.

Webster's tenure as FBI director spanned both the Carter and Reagan administrations, followed by his leadership of the CIA under President George H.W. Bush. He concluded his letter by urging senators to prioritize nonpartisan leadership and experience in their considerations, emphasizing the importance of these qualities for national security.