Trump Appoints Bill Pulte as Acting DNI, Initiates Process for Intelligence Community Changes

President Donald Trump has appointed Bill Pulte as the Acting Director of National Intelligence (DNI) and has instructed him to begin the process of reducing personnel within the intelligence community. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Trump expressed his desire for a smaller intelligence community, stating, "I’d like to see it smaller. I think there are a lot of people in there that shouldn’t be there." Pulte, who is currently the Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, will officially take over on June 30 following the resignation of Tulsi Gabbard. Trump's decision has drawn criticism from some lawmakers, including former Senate Majority Leader John Thune, who emphasized the need for professionalism in the DNI role. Trump noted that Pulte's outsider status was a factor in his selection, suggesting it would allow for more flexibility in implementing changes. He also reassured that an active search for a permanent DNI is underway, stating that Pulte's interim position could facilitate necessary adjustments before a permanent appointment is made. Pulte's leadership may impact legislative efforts, particularly regarding the reauthorization of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, as some Democrats have indicated they may not support it while he is in charge.