James Schlesinger

James Schlesinger is a Counselor at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, who had served as U.S. Secretary of Defense and Director of Central Intelligence, as well as U.S. Secretary of Energy.

Central Intelligence Agency

His short tenure was due to his being appointed U.S. Secretary of Defense. On 2 February 1973 he became Director of Central Intelligence, after Richard Helms, the previous director, had been fired for his refusal to block the Watergate investigation. Schlesinger's first words upon becoming DCI were, reportedly, "I'm here to make sure you don't screw Richard Nixon." Although his CIA service was short, barely six months, it was stormy as he again undertook comprehensive organizational and personnel changes. He became so unpopular at CIA Headquarters in Langley, Virginia that a security camera had to be installed opposite his official portrait because of fears that it would be vandalized. By this time he had a reputation as a tough, forthright, and outspoken administrator.

He commissioned reports — known as the "Family Jewels" — on illegal activities by the Agency.