These statutory responsibilities should not be the sole basis of our dialogue. The Intelligence Community must interact with the Oversight Committees on the basis of bipartisanship, candor, and mutual trust. Experience makes it clear that, when the principle of oversight is neglected or allowed to erode, the Intelligence Community, the Congress, and, most important, the American people suffer. In pursuing these five objectives, I will promote a process of continuous improvement throughout the Intelligence Community so that it can adapt quickly to new developments and needs. Protecting the status quo and adhering to convention inhibit the innovation, creativity, and dynamism that are essential to keep US intelligence the best in the world.
Good intelligence requires experimentation and risk taking.
It demands a work environment built solidly on the foundation of equal opportunity and advancement based on performance. This is the best way to foster the free expression of ideas we need to increase efficiency and stay focused on collecting secrets. Mr. Chairman and Members of this Committee, I am determined to restore the morale of the employees of the Intelligence Community and CIA in particular. I know from close association with the Intelligence Community over the past decade that its work force is among the most talented, dedicated, and hard working in the US Government. These professionals want to be challenged and held to the highest standards of performance and accountability.