President Donald Trump’s appointment of Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence drew immediate criticism from several Republican senators, who questioned his qualifications and lack of intelligence experience.
Pulte Named Acting Intelligence Chief
On Tuesday, in a post on Truth Social, Trump announced that Pulte would take over the nation’s top intelligence post while continuing to oversee federal housing finance.
“I am appointing the Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, and Chairman of Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac, William J. Pulte, to serve as Acting Director of National Intelligence,” Trump wrote.
He added that Pulte has “deep experience managing the most sensitive matters in America, the safety and soundness of the Markets, and over 10 Trillion Dollars at Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac.”
Trump also said Pulte would continue in his current roles while serving as acting DNI.
GOP Questions Pulte’s Intelligence Credentials
Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), a senior member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, said he saw “no evidence of any qualifications for that job,” while noting that the Senate has no role in confirming acting officials, reported The Hill.
Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) was blunt and said, “The best I can tell you is he’s not qualified.”
Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) said she was surprised by the appointment and was unaware of any intelligence background that would prepare Pulte to lead agencies such as the CIA, NSA and other intelligence organizations.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) cautioned against politicizing the intelligence apparatus, saying, “We don’t need a weaponized DNI, we need professionals there.”
He added that Pulte would face a “lengthy road” if nominated to hold the position permanently.
Democrat Criticizes Pulte Pick
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) said Pulte’s conduct at the FHFA had already triggered a watchdog investigation, adding that “his authority to attack President Trump’s perceived political enemies.” The Massachusetts senator also said the president was “rewarding his lackey,” who has no national security experience.
Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) called the move “corruption” and said Pulte had no qualifications for the intelligence role.
Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) accused Pulte of being a “Trump puppet,” saying the intelligence community should protect Americans, not serve political interests.
Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) also said Pulte had “zero national security experience” and claimed he was being used to target Trump’s opponents.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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