Trump-appointed Acting DNI Bill Pulte Arrives Early, Signals Staff Reductions

Bill Pulte, President Donald Trump’s choice for acting director of national intelligence, arrived at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) on Thursday, a day before his scheduled start. Sources said he asked for a roster of every employee to evaluate potential layoffs, with expectations of cutting hundreds of jobs.

Pulte’s early visit surprised staff, including outgoing director Tulsi Gabbard, who received only a brief notice. During the visit he met with lawyers and senior staff and in a prior briefing inquired about taking the President’s Daily Brief home, prompting concern among intelligence officials.

He also asked about his security clearance level and whether he would have access to a government aircraft, and requested a protective security detail before formally assuming the role. Pulte has not previously held a top-secret clearance, a standard requirement for the position.

Trump has indicated that Pulte will retain his role as head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency while serving as acting DNI, a dual-job arrangement that is unusual for the intelligence post. The administration’s nomination of Jay Clayton for the permanent DNI position has stalled, leading to uncertainty about the agency’s leadership.

Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Tom Cotton described the president’s directive to delay Clayton’s confirmation as “regrettable.” GOP Senator Mike Rounds emphasized the priority of confirming a permanent director, stating that the focus should be on “getting Jay in as quickly as possible.”

Pulte has not responded to requests for comment. The ODNI has not yet provided details on his immediate priorities.

"President Trump wanted someone in that position who is a true loyalist, who will do what he wants him to do. He has that in Bill," a source close to Pulte told CNN.

The development has drawn criticism from some Democrats and Republicans who question Pulte’s suitability for the role, given his lack of intelligence experience and recent actions suggesting an aggressive approach to agency management.