Trump will not nominate Pulte as permanent intel chief
President Trump announced he will not seek permanent Senate confirmation for Bill Pulte to lead the national intelligence community. The decision follows bipartisan criticism regarding Pulte's lack of national security experience and concerns over his interim appointment.
President Donald Trump said on Thursday afternoon he will not nominate mortgage regulator Bill Pulte for a permanent role overseeing 18 intelligence agencies. The decision follows bipartisan criticism regarding Pulte's lack of national security experience required by law for the Senate-confirmed position. Pulte's temporary status threatens the reauthorization of key surveillance authorities before a June 12 deadline.
Pulte is scheduled to take over as interim director in the United States when Tulsi Gabbard leaves the post on June 30. Under federal law, his interim service is limited to 210 days. Speaking in the Oval Office on Thursday afternoon, Trump said Pulte would serve only a short-term stint.
