The White House today offered an offical statement on Tony Lake with regards to the upcoming hearing, with a letter attached from David Boren, Sam Nunn, and Warren Rudman. The statement and letter are as follows:

Statement By The Press Secretary:

"The President welcomes the strong endorsement by former Senators Warren Rudman, David Boren, and Sam Nunn of anthony Lake to be his next Director of Central Intelligence. In their many years of public service, these individuals have worked closely with the intelligence community and understand well the abilities and judgement necessary for a successful DCI.

"In addition, Senator Rudman will introduce Mr. Lake in his hearing tomorrow, March 11, 1997 along with Senators John McCain, Edward Kennedy and John Kerry. We welcome this strong bipartisan support for the President's nominee.

"The President is pleased that the hearings will begin and urges the Senate to confirm Mr. Lake as quickly as possible. He believes Mr. Lake is uniquely qualified for this important post and wants his national security team in place."

This is the text of the letter from the former senators sent today to the Senate:

Letter To The Senate:

March 7, 1997

Dear Senator:

We offer our bipartisan support for the confirmation of Anthony Lake as the next Director of Central Intelligence. Mr. Lake has distinguished himself in over thirty years as a respected public servant. He is a man of integrity and high competence.

After four years as the President's National Security Advisor, Mr. Lake understands deeply the vital importance of unvarnished intelligence to the development of sound policy. He has earned the trust and confidence of the President. This established relationship will help ensure his freedom as Director of Central Intelligence to be frank with the President and with Congress.

Mr. Lake's career has been marked by a determination to put American power at the service of American interests and principles. We believe this is the mark of a man well suited to lead the Intelligence Community.

(signed) David Boren, Sam Nunn, and Warren Rudman