Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Bill Pulte would face a “lengthy road” if President Donald Trump seeks to make him director of national intelligence permanently.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Senate Majority Leader John Thune appeared cautious Tuesday about President Donald Trump’s decision to name Bill Pulte acting director of national intelligence, saying the administration will need to clarify whether it plans to seek Senate confirmation for Pulte on a permanent basis.
Trump selected Pulte, who leads the Federal Housing Finance Agency, to temporarily replace outgoing Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. Gabbard announced she would step down at the end of the month because of her husband’s cancer diagnosis.
Pulte has not previously held an intelligence position.
Thune was asked by reporters about the appointment Tuesday and suggested that a confirmation process could be difficult if Trump decides to formally nominate Pulte for the role, according to The Hill.
When asked about concerns that Pulte could politicize the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, Thune said the agency needs professionalism rather than political weaponization.
“We don’t need a weaponized DNI. We need professionals there,” Thune said.
Pulte has been a prominent figure in advancing criminal referrals against Trump adversaries tied to alleged mortgage fraud. Critics have described those efforts as politically motivated prosecutions. Pulte also drew scrutiny for supporting a controversial 50-year mortgage proposal.
Thune did not directly say whether he would oppose Pulte but made clear that a permanent nomination would require more information and a difficult Senate path.
“I’ll try and get more information about the current state of their thinking about that position. If he’s somebody they want in that position permanently, he’s got a lengthy road ahead of him,” Thune said.
The comments highlight early Senate uncertainty over Trump’s choice to place a housing finance official at the head of the nation’s intelligence apparatus on an acting basis.
Pulte currently oversees the Federal Housing Finance Agency, which regulates Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and plays a major role in the U.S. mortgage market. His selection to lead ODNI has raised questions about his lack of intelligence experience and whether the White House intends for him to serve only temporarily or pursue the post long term.
The Office of the Director of National Intelligence coordinates the country’s intelligence agencies and advises the president on national security threats. Any permanent director must be confirmed by the Senate.
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