In a procedural vote on Monday, the Senate backed Jay Clayton’s nomination for the post of Director of National Intelligence. The C-SPAN television network broadcast the session.

In favor of ending debate and holding a vote on Clayton’s confirmation for the post were 51 senators, while 43 voted against. The final vote is expected to take place on July 29.

On June 11, US President Donald Trump announced the nomination of Clayton for the post of Director of National Intelligence. Clayton previously served as chairman of the US Securities and Exchange Commission. The Director of National Intelligence is considered the coordinator of the activities of all 18 US intelligence agencies.

On July 21, the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence recommended that the upper chamber of Congress confirm Clayton for the post.