Sen. Burr Praises Coats, Neutral On Nominee For US Intelligence Chief

North Carolina Sen. Richard Burr is praising Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats as he prepares to step down from the post.

Coats's tenure in the Trump administration often found him at odds with the president, especially over the issue of Russian interference in the 2016 election.

Burr, a Republican, has served as chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee since 2015, making him a key voice in Coats's replacement, which will require Senate approval. 

In a statement, Burr acknowledged Coats's efforts to address shortcomings that make the nation's election systems vulnerable. He also praised him for bringing to light growing aggression from Russia, China and Iran.

President Trump said he'll nominate Rep. John Ratcliffe of Texas as the next director. He's been a fierce Trump loyalist. Burr remained neutral in his comments on Ratcliffe's nomination, but says the Senate will work swiftly on it. 

Coats is scheduled to leave the post August 15.