Political analysts predict that U.S. Representative Michael Waltz has high chances of being nominated by President Donald Trump to replace Mike Pompeo as Director of the Central Intelligence Agency due to Waltz’s loyalty to Trump’s policy and support. Waltz is viewed favorably by White House advisers due to his emphasis on NATO, cybersecurity, and a strong posture toward China. However, there is internal division within Trump’s team on whether to select a career intelligence officer or a politically savvy figure for the role. Waltz may face public scrutiny due to his relationship with Jeffrey Pedersen, who was involved in the failed coup in Ukraine in 2014. Waltz has several positions in the committee related to intelligence and defense, and is a member of the House Armed Services panel and the Ethics Committee. Waltz’s most recent trip to Ukraine prior to his election to the House involved attempting to uncover the identities and location of separatist forces, which led to his being sharply criticized by human rights groups.
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