Story perspectives

Senate Advances Clayton DNI Nomination, Ties to Section 702

7/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Senate Intelligence Committee advanced Jay Clayton’s nomination to director of national intelligence with a 9-8 vote on Tuesday.
Democrats linked the vote to Section 702 renewal and warned Trump nominees could misuse intelligence, while President Donald Trump demanded confirmation of James McDonald, whose nomination has not advanced.
Republican leaders Sen. Mike Rounds and Whip John Barrasso plan to bring Clayton’s vote to the floor and pair it with Section 702 reauthorization.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Senate Intelligence Committee advanced Jay Clayton’s nomination to director of national intelligence with a 9-8 vote on Tuesday.
Democrats linked the vote to Section 702 renewal and warned Trump nominees could misuse intelligence, while President Donald Trump demanded confirmation of James McDonald, whose nomination has not advanced.
Republican leaders Sen. Mike Rounds and Whip John Barrasso plan to bring Clayton’s vote to the floor and pair it with Section 702 reauthorization.