President Donald Trump announced that Bill Pulte, the federal housing finance regulator, would not be his permanent choice for the role of Director of National Intelligence (DNI). Trump’s decision follows bipartisan opposition over Pulte’s lack of experience in national security. The role requires Senate confirmation, which lawmakers suggested would be unlikely for Pulte.
“He’s not going to be permanent because, you know, I don’t think he’d want to be permanent,” Trump stated during an Oval Office Q&A. Trump described Pulte as a “very smart guy” but indicated other candidates are being considered for the position, noting, “We’re interviewing people right now.”
Pulte, known for his controversial oversight as head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, has been involved in contentious actions concerning mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. He has pursued perceived political rivals on allegations of mortgage fraud and criticized former Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell for not reducing interest rates.
Pulte introduced the idea of a 50-year mortgage, which faced backlash. The U.S. Senate raised concerns about his qualifications in national security, doubting his ability to manage the coordination of 18 federal agencies responsible for security. Trump’s first DNI, Tulsi Gabbard, stepped down last month due to her husband’s cancer diagnosis.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune remarked that the DNI role should not become a political tool and should remain in the hands of experienced professionals. Republican senators, including Thom Tillis, Bill Cassidy, and John Cornyn, all departing the Senate after the elections, expressed similar reservations.
Democrats, like Sen. Elizabeth Warren, argued against even a temporary appointment, warning of potential misuse of sensitive information and linking Pulte’s role to election denial schemes. Warren urged Trump to retract Pulte’s appointment altogether.
During a recent Senate hearing, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent acknowledged tensions with Pulte, indicating plans to oppose him in 2025. Despite these issues, Pulte maintains a close relationship with Trump, being a frequent companion on Air Force One.
Trump praised Pulte’s integrity, reflecting the personal connection between the two despite the broader administrative challenges.