Author

We're trying to be very careful and precise in our use of language, because I think the language we use and the images we project really do have resonance. It's the reason why I don't use the term jihadist to refer to terrorists. It gives them the religious legitimacy they so desperately seek, but I ain't gonna give it to them.

From John O. Brennan

I'm neither Republican nor Democrat. I've worked for the past five administrations.

From John O. Brennan

As we've seen, deploying large armies abroad won't always be our best offense. Countries typically don't want foreign soldiers in their cities and towns.

From John O. Brennan

Sometimes there are actions that we are forced to take, but there need to be boundaries beyond which we are going to recognize that we're not going to go because we still are Americans, and we are supposed to be representing something to people in this country and overseas.

From John O. Brennan

While the intelligence profession oftentimes demands secrecy, it is critically important that there be a full and open discourse on intelligence matters with the appropriate elected representatives of the American people.

From John O. Brennan

It's not that the system is broken, but clearly there are ways to improve the system, strengthen it, to make sure that we can put together the various bits and pieces of information in a way that allows us to stop every single terrorist out there.

From John O. Brennan

Poverty does not cause violence and terrorism. Lack of education does not cause terrorism.

From John O. Brennan

The president's priority is to protect the safety and security of the American people. That's the physical security of the American people as well as the prosperity of the American people.

From John O. Brennan

I think the rule should be that if we're going to take actions overseas that result in the deaths of people, the United States should take responsibility for that.

From John O. Brennan

Throughout my career, I had the great fortune to experience firsthand as well as to witness what it means to be a CIA officer.

From John O. Brennan

John O. Brennan

Notable Quotes

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Authors with Opposing Views

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