AP source: Ex-general tapped as intelligence chief

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A person familiar with the situation says President Obama plans to nominate Pentagon official James Clapper to be his next intelligence chief despite objections from Congress.

Clapper, a retired Air Force general, is the Pentagon’s top intelligence official. He is expected to be nominated in a White House ceremony Saturday.

If confirmed, Clapper would replace retired Adm. Dennis Blair, who resigned after frequent clashes with the White House. But Clapper’s combative sparring during hearings has made him an unpopular choice with some in Congress. His critics also question whether he will be able to counter Obama’s intelligence inner circle at the National Security Council and the CIA.

The person who disclosed Obama’s choice would speak only on condition of anonymity ahead of the expected announcement.

-- Associated Press