Obama asked for Intel Chief's Resignation, but "Grateful for His Leadership"

Fox News confirms President Obama asked for the resignation of his intelligence chief, Dennis Blair.

The Director of National Intelligence will officially step down from his post next Friday, May 28th.

In a paper statement released by the White House this evening, Mr Obama praised Blair for his leadership:

"Dennis Blair has a remarkable record of service to the United States, and I am grateful for his leadership as Director of National Intelligence. Over the course of many decades, Admiral Blair has served with great integrity, intellect, and commitment to our country and the values that we hold dear. During his time as DNI, our intelligence community has performed admirably and effectively at a time of great challenges to our security, and I have valued his sense of purpose and patriotism. He and I both share a deep admiration for the men and women of our intelligence community, who are performing extraordinary and indispensable service to our nation."

Blair is the third Director of National Intelligence. He will officially submit his resignation Friday. Administration officials tell Fox they have already been interviewing several "strong candidates" to replace him.