McCain Wants Senators To Vote Against Haspel's Nomination

Sen. John McCain is urging his colleagues to not accept the nomination of Gina Haspel to lead the CIA. 

In a statement released after Haspel's confirmation hearing Wednesday, McCain said "her refusal to acknowledge torture's immorality is disqualifying."

He also said Haspel's Wednesday testimony did not address his concerns about her involvement in a harsh detention and interrogation system the CIA used during the George W. Bush administration. 

McCain, who was held as a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War, is currently home in Arizona where he's receiving treatment for brain cancer. He's not expected to be back in Washington, D.C., to vote on Haspel's nomination. 

CIA Nominee Gina Haspel Vows Not To Restart Interrogation Program

Gina Haspel made that promise during her confirmation hearing before the Senate intelligence committee Wednesday.

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With McCain out, the Senate essentially is made up of 50 Republicans and 49 Democrats. 

Republican Sen. Rand Paul already says he'll vote no, but Haspel appeared to pick up a yes vote from Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin to make up for that. 

That said, she can't afford to have any more Republicans vote against her without winning more Democrats to her side.

Additional reporting from Newsy affiliate CNN.