Trump appoints FHFA chief Bill Pulte as acting U.S. intelligence director, sparking GOP criticism

President Donald Trump named Bill Pulte, the 38‑year‑old director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, as acting director of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence after Tulsi Gabbard’s resignation. Pulte, who also chairs Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and is known for his meme‑stock activity, has no intelligence background. Republican senators expressed alarm, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune saying the agency needs “professionals.” Trump told reporters the appointment is temporary and that other candidates are being interviewed, hinting that Pulte could be used to investigate “rigged elections.” Democratic leaders, including Senator Elizabeth Warren, warned that placing Pulte in the role poses a danger, especially given remarks that the agency might be leveraged for election‑denial theories. Pulte may serve as acting DNI for up to 210 days, until January 2027, unless a permanent nominee is confirmed.