Bill Pulte Appointed as Acting Director of National Intelligence
President Trump has announced the appointment of Bill Pulte as the acting director of national intelligence, succeeding Tulsi Gabbard. This decision introduces a notable shift, as Pulte’s professional background centers on housing finance rather than intelligence.
Pulte currently holds the position of director at the Federal Housing Finance Agency and serves as chairman of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, organizations instrumental in the mortgage markets. His biography at the FHFA details his extensive experience in housing and philanthropy, but lacks any direct intelligence expertise.
Announcing the appointment via social media, Trump praised Pulte’s qualifications, emphasizing his “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, a substantial increase from where it was just 12 months ago.”
The director of national intelligence role, established post-9/11 to improve coordination among U.S. intelligence agencies, requires appointees to possess extensive national security expertise, according to the 2004 congressional stipulation.
Pulte has been an outspoken supporter of the Trump administration, often engaging in aggressive political maneuvers. He notably accused Lisa Cook, a member of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, of mortgage fraud, a charge Cook denies. The Supreme Court deliberated on Trump’s subsequent attempt to remove Cook in January, with no verdict yet announced.
Additionally, Pulte has accused New York Attorney General Letitia James of falsely claiming multiple primary residences. James has consistently denied these allegations. Despite a federal grand jury’s rejection of an indictment against her, the administration has persistently pursued legal action, including a referral to the Attorney General in April 2025 and two criminal referrals in March.
Pulte’s allegations extend to Democratic Sen. Adam Schiff, who also refutes claims of misrepresenting his primary residence.
The announcement was met with criticism from Democrats, including Sen. Mark Warner, who expressed concern over Pulte’s potential impact on intelligence integrity. Warner stated, “Rather than selecting a respected national security professional capable of delivering independent judgments, the president has chosen an official who has demonstrated not just willingness but eagerness to use the authorities of government to pursue political retribution.” He further voiced apprehension that Pulte might “shape intelligence around the president’s wishes, regardless of the cost to the American people.”
Gabbard’s resignation, effective June 30, was attributed to her wish to support her husband during his cancer treatment. Pulte joins a growing list of administration officials assuming multiple roles, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is also the acting national security adviser.
Copyright 2026 NPR
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