The man with the secrets
His epic run is over, but questions about George Tenet's tenure at the CIA sure aren't
Who will replace Tenet? A leading candidate is said to be Rep. Porter Goss, a former CIA officer and chairman of the House intelligence committee. Richard Armitage, the deputy secretary of state, has also been mentioned, but he's unlikely to take the job. Other candidates: National Security Council deputy Stephen Hadley and Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge. A successor is unlikely to be named before the November election; Tenet's deputy, John McLaughlin, a veteran of the agency's analytical side, has been named acting director.
For his part, George Tenet looks forward to spending time with his family and building a new life. He also hopes to make some money, by giving speeches and building a consulting firm. Aides are encouraging him to write a book. The money would come in handy. Some months down the road--no one will say just how many--Tenet's government protection will expire, and he'll have to hire his own bodyguards--a sign of the times for CIA bosses in the terrorism age.
With Edward T. Pound, Linda Robinson, Samantha Levine, Terence Samuel, Kenneth T. Walsh and Chitra Ragavan
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