Overview
- Bill Pulte was tapped as acting Director of National Intelligence on June 2 and is set to assume the role when Tulsi Gabbard leaves on June 30.
- The Wall Street Journal reported that President Trump privately told Pulte to “start the process” of cutting ODNI staff and to review classified material tied to the 2020 election.
- Pulte has no prior intelligence or national security experience and will continue to serve as FHFA director while overseeing ODNI responsibilities.
- Criticism from both parties, including comments from Senate Republicans such as Mitch McConnell and Thom Tillis, helped block a procedural vote to advance reauthorization of FISA Section 702.
- An acting official can serve under the Federal Vacancies Reform Act for up to 210 days, so Pulte’s short-term appointment could allow him to reshape ODNI quickly with consequences for staffing, classified records access, and oversight before a permanent nominee is chosen.