Which of the following best describes the conflict that has sometimes existed between the National Security Council (NSC) and others within the national security establishment?

a. Because the NCS always integrates advice from other cabinet departments, most advisers in national security see the council as having little independent value.
b. The NSC has sometimes conspired with the State and Defense departments in covert operations, such as the Iran-Contra affair.
c. Because the NCS was created after September 11, 2001, many in the departments of State and Defense do not respect the limited experience of this newcomer.
d. The NSC has sometimes competed with, rather than integrated advice from, cabinet departments such as State and Defense, and it also has become involved in covert operations such as the Iran-Contra affair.

d