Nation 1-8

Barack Obama nominated Leon Panetta, the former Democratic congressmember representing San Luis Obispo, as head of the Central Intelligence Agency despite Panetta’s lack of experience with the intelligence community. Panetta was President Bill Clinton’s chief of staff for three years. Though some praise Panetta’s lack of experience as ideal for the beleaguered agency, California Senator Dianne Feinstein said she was troubled by the nomination, and indicated she might oppose the appointment. (/panetta18)