Acting DNI Bill Pulte orders security‑clearance review of Jack Smith team and launches fourth round of intelligence lay‑

A watchdog group, the Center to Advance Security in America, urged Acting Director of National Intelligence Bill Pulte to review the security clearances of members of Special Counsel Jack Smith’s team. The group cited documents released by Senator Chuck Grassley showing alleged mishandling of classified material and improper access without a "need‑to‑know" basis, and asked the DNI to consider revoking those clearances.

Since taking over the ODNI, Pulte has also overseen a series of staff reductions. He announced the completion of a fourth round of layoffs, reportedly firing over 50 intelligence officials in the latest wave and removing dozens in earlier rounds. The firings are part of his stated effort to "reduce the size of ODNI" and refocus the agency on national‑security priorities.

Both actions reflect heightened scrutiny of classified‑information handling and a broader restructuring of the U.S. intelligence community under Pulte’s acting leadership.