Trump Appoints Pulte as Acting DNI with Focus on Downsizing

President Donald Trump announced the appointment of Bill Pulte as the incoming Acting Director of National Intelligence (DNI). Trump stated in an interview with the Wall Street Journal that he wants Pulte to “start the process” of firing certain intelligence officials.

Pulte will take on the role following the resignation of current DNI, Tulsi Gabbard, effective June 30. Gabbard stepped down after her husband was diagnosed with a rare cancer. Pulte’s appointment comes with the task of reducing the staff at the 18 intelligence agencies overseen by the DNI.

I’d like to see it smaller. I think there are a lot of people in there that shouldn’t be there,

Trump told the Wall Street Journal, expressing his views on the size of the intelligence community.

The choice of Pulte, who is also the Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, has raised concerns among some lawmakers. Former Senate Majority Leader, John Thune, voiced his criticism, stating, “We don’t need a weaponized DNI. We need professionals there.” Thune’s comments underline apprehensions about Pulte’s qualifications for the role.

Trump, however, supports his decision, emphasizing Pulte’s outsider perspective as a key factor. According to Trump, this perspective allows Pulte more freedom to enact changes.

Pulte faces potential challenges in Senate confirmation if nominated permanently. Trump acknowledged these challenges but expressed confidence in the ongoing search for a permanent replacement.
“Frankly, it might be good for him to shake it up before people come,” Trump commented, suggesting that Pulte’s temporary status could be advantageous in implementing staff reductions.

Pulte, who also chairs the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac entities, has influenced legislative processes. After some Senate Republicans blocked a bill reauthorizing the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), Democratic Senator Mark Warner indicated that Democrats would oppose FISA reauthorization if Pulte remained in charge of intelligence.

Fox News Digital reached out to the offices of John Thune and Mark Warner, as well as Bill Pulte, for further comments on the developments.