Trump rejects replacing acting intel chief Bill Pulte, putting FISA extension at risk

President Donald Trump met privately with House Speaker Mike Johnson about the acting director of national intelligence, Bill Pulte. Insiders said the meeting did not go well and Trump signaled he will not name a new nominee, keeping Pulte in the post despite his lack of intelligence or military experience.

Democratic leaders have threatened to let the crucial FISA Section 702 surveillance authority expire on Friday unless Pulte is replaced. Seven Senate Republicans have already voted against the extension, and the impasse could leave the U.S. foreign‑surveillance program without reauthorization.