It's one of the many reasons General Alexander is regarded among conspiracy theorists as 'supreme leader' of the USG -- he has the ability to blackmail everybody with 100% effectiveness.

He stands at a very interesting intersection between civilian leadership (head of the NSA) and military leadership (head of US CyberCommand).

Based on the incredible amount of ass-kissing during the congressional testimony a few days ago, I wouldn't be surprised if that were true.

There are a few who stand at odds with the party line, for example during the congressional hearings in the past couple of weeks Senator Tom Udall (D, New Mexico) notably has been very active in discussing NSA programs rather than attacking Snowden's credibility.

https://twitter.com/SenatorTomUdall

Lt. Gen Michael Hayden (Ret) was the DIRNSA at the time Russell Tice is alleging these wiretaps occurred.

This is indeed true, however there's nothing indicating that those programs have stopped.

Technically the NSA is a part of the DOD. They assist the ODNI which is civilian, although its leadership role is limited.