Gatekeeper: Memoirs of a CIA Polygraph Examiner
Our Expert Review
John Sullivan conducted more polygraph tests than anyone in CIA history during his 31-year career. His memoir provides an unprecedented window into the Agency's polygraph program — the role of the "gatekeepers" who tested applicants, employees, and foreign assets. Sullivan candidly acknowledges that polygraph is more art than science, but argues it remains indispensable for intelligence screening. The book covers Cold War espionage, double agents, the Aldrich Ames and Harold Nicholson cases, personnel scandals, and the internal politics of polygraph within the CIA. Sullivan is honest about both the successes and failures of the program, making this a more balanced account than most insider narratives. For aspiring examiners considering government service, this provides unmatched insight into what the career actually looks like.
What’s Inside
Who Should Read This
General readers interested in intelligence and espionage. Aspiring government polygraph examiners. Anyone curious about how polygraph operates within the national security establishment.
How to Cite This Book
Ready to Book a Polygraph Examination?
Our network of examiners trained to APA standards uses the validated techniques described in these books.