AI Won’t Replace Spies—It Will Make Them More Powerful Than Ever
AI Won’t Replace Spies—It Will Make Them More Powerful Than Ever  
Podcast: Fed Gov Today
Published On: Wed Apr 29 2026
Description: Former CIA case officer Tom Mulligan breaks down why artificial intelligence isn’t replacing human intelligence—but transforming it. From AI “co-workers” assisting analysts to the growing threat of AI-generated deception, Mulligan outlines five critical lessons for the intelligence community. He explains how AI is supercharging surveillance, reshaping tradecraft, and enhancing persuasion, while also making human judgment more valuable than ever. Despite rapid technological advances, Mulligan argues HUMINT remains essential—and may become even more important as AI spreads globally. The future of intelligence isn’t man vs. machine—it’s how humans and AI work together to outthink adversaries.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com