President Trump Appoints Bill Pulte as Acting Director of National Intelligence

President Donald Trump has appointed Bill Pulte, currently leading the Federal Housing Finance Agency, to the position of acting director of national intelligence. This unexpected decision places a real estate leader without evident national security experience in a crucial role during ongoing conflicts, such as the U.S.’s situation with Iran.

Trump announced on social media that Pulte will replace Tulsi Gabbard, the former Hawaii congresswoman. Gabbard resigned in the previous month following her husband’s cancer diagnosis. Despite the shift in roles, Pulte will continue his responsibilities at the FHFA.

Trump defended his decision by citing Pulte’s leadership at the FHFA and his involvement with mortgage giants like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Trump emphasized Pulte’s expertise in handling sensitive market matters as valuable.

Several Senate Republicans have expressed skepticism about Pulte’s qualifications for this critical intelligence role. Senate Majority Leader John Thune voiced concerns about needing professionals in the position rather than a potentially politicized leader. Similarly, Republican Senators Tom Cotton, Thom Tillis, Bill Cassidy, and John Cornyn raised questions about Pulte’s experience in national security.

Democratic leaders highlighted their concerns about Pulte’s appointment, emphasizing the lack of national security experience required by law. Senator Mark Warner noted that Pulte might have been selected to align with the White House’s narrative preferences rather than genuine intelligence needs. Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized the appointment as a reward for Pulte’s loyalty rather than his competence.

Robert Weissman of Public Citizen warned that Pulte could misuse the national intelligence role to target critics of Trump’s administration. Pulte has been involved in controversies, including referrals for mortgage fraud against Democratic figures like New York Attorney General Letitia James and Senator Adam Schiff. However, these referrals have not led to any charges, and such actions have been perceived as partisan.

Pulte’s combative style extends beyond his professional role, having publicly clashed with family members over personal disputes. His actions prompted an intense reaction at times, such as a reported confrontation with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

Despite these controversies, some members of the administration, including Kevin Hassett from the National Economic Council, have expressed strong support for Pulte citing his attention to detail and the trust he has earned within the White House.

If Trump formally nominates Pulte for the role, he will require Senate confirmation to occupy the position permanently. Trump’s tendency to appoint acting officials in high-level roles throughout his administration has underscored the reliance on loyalty in such decisions.

Joey Cappelletti and Seung Min Kim contributed to this report.