Gina Haspel, current acting director of Central Intelligence Agency, on Wednesday passed a crucial vote nominating her to be the first female director of the organisation.
As per the reports, the 33-year CIA veteran was supported by five Democratic senators and she is further expected to pass a forthcoming full Senate vote.
Haspel, 61, has been said to be a controversial pick for the post due to her involvement in the 26/11 attacks investigation.
She had also disavowed the techniques previously used by the CIA such as waterboarding.
Earlier yesterday, United States President Donald Trump took to his Twitter account to showcase his support for Haspel to be elected to the top post in the intelligence agency.
"Gina Haspel is one step closer to leading our brave men and women at the CIA. She is exceptionally qualified and the Senate should confirm her immediately. We need her to keep our great country safe! #ConfirmGina," President Trump tweeted.
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Earlier on March 10, Haspel testified before the Senate Intelligence Committee at her public confirmation hearing about her involvement in the CIA's interrogation tactics and in the destruction of CIA interrogation tapes, as per CNN.