John L. Helgerson

Getting to Know the President: Intelligence Briefings of Presidential Candidates, 1952-2004 John L. Helgerson

Updated second edition published by the CIA's Center for the Study of Intelligence. Getting To Know the President by John Helgerson makes a singular contribution to the literature of intelligence by describing this important process of information sharing between the IC and the chief executive. First published in 1996 and now revised and updated to include accounts of intelligence support to candidates and presidents-elect in the three elections between then and 2004, Helgerson's study provides unique insights into the mechanics and content of the briefings, the interaction of the participants, and the briefings' effect on the relationships presidents have had with their intelligence services. His observations on how and what to brief during the campaign and transition periods are essential reading for members of the community charged with that responsibility in the future and seeking to learn from the best practices of their predecessors.