Is Leon Panetta A-List?
No — Leon Panetta is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Reached A-list in 2009
CIA Director
Lost A-list status in 2013
Dropped to B tier — Retires from Government
Ranking Timeline
U.S. Representative
Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, beginning his congressional career.
OMB Director
Appointed Director of the Office of Management and Budget under President Clinton.
White House Chief of Staff
Becomes White House Chief of Staff, a powerful position in the Clinton administration.
CIA Director
Appointed Director of the Central Intelligence Agency under President Obama.
Secretary of Defense
Becomes Secretary of Defense, overseeing U.S. military operations worldwide.
Retires from Government
Retires from government service, transitioning to advisory and academic roles.
Author and Commentator
Remains active as an author, speaker, and commentator on national security issues.
Last updated: February 25, 2026