On June 5, 2026, President Trump urged his choice to temporarily lead the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to execute widespread firings of employees deemed unnecessary. In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Trump mentioned Bill Pulte, his interim pick, would have more flexibility compared to someone permanently appointed.
Trump’s statements highlighted his perspective on Pulte, who currently heads the Federal Housing Finance Agency. Pulte is not widely recognized for national security credentials. Trump announced Pulte would replace Tulsi Gabbard as the director of national intelligence. However, he will not be put forward for Senate confirmation to lead the agency on a permanent basis.
Pulte’s Senate confirmation for his current role allows him to serve in this new position for up to 210 days. Known for his strong support of Trump, Pulte has spent over a year alleging misconduct by various individuals seen as political adversaries to the president. These accusations include actions by people who have investigated Trump or entities like the Federal Reserve, which Trump claims act with political bias.