Bill Pulte named US acting intelligence chief amid Democratic backlash

House Democrats on the Intelligence Committee have urged President Donald Trump to subject Bill Pulte, the head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, to a comprehensive security review before he assumes the role of acting director of national intelligence. The committee’s letter requests a full examination of Pulte’s financial holdings and foreign contacts, as well as a polygraph test, noting that he has never held a security clearance or overseen classified material.

Pulte, who also chairs the government‑backed mortgage enterprises Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, is slated to take office on 19 June while retaining his existing positions. Democrats argue that his lack of intelligence or national‑security experience poses a risk to the protection of sources and methods. The current director, Tulsi Gabbard, had planned to serve until the end of June. Trump dismissed the criticism, stating that Pulte will investigate alleged election manipulation despite no evidence of foreign interference.

The committee’s 11 members warned that without a thorough vetting process, Pulte could misuse intelligence resources against political opponents, and they highlighted the limited authority they have to block the appointment.