National Defense Briefing Series – Apr 2026

Great Power Competition – Intelligence

John E. McLaughlin is a preeminent figure in American intelligence, with a career spanning over six decades of service. He served as the Deputy Director of Central Intelligence (DDCI) from 2000 to 2004 and as the Acting Director of Central Intelligence (ADCI) in late 2004.

Mr. McLaughlin began his intelligence career on the ground as an Army intelligence officer in Vietnam in 1969. In the fifty-seven years since, he has served at every echelon of the craft—from tactical operations to the highest levels of strategic policy. Today, he continues to shape the future of the profession as a senior mentor and community thought leader.

He currently serves as the Professor of Practice and Director of the Philip Merrill Center for Strategic Studies at the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS). He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the American Academy of Diplomacy and serves on several bipartisan panels, including the Homeland Security Advisory Group, the National Security Advisory Group and the Middle East Institute’s Advisory Group on Countering Terrorism and Extremism.

He is a recipient of the Distinguished Intelligence Community Service Award, the National Security Medal, and the Johns Hopkins Alumni Association’s Distinguished Alumnus Award and is a frequent guest analyst on CNN, CSPAN, and Fox News.  

No one brings a better perspective of the issues posed in this era of Great Power Competition and the importance of the intelligence craft.  John is also an accomplished magician who co-founded Washington Magic and has collaborated with David Copperfield.

Refunds will not be given for cancellations after midnight, April 13^th, 2026.