Washington, Jun 03 (V7N) – US President Donald Trump has appointed his close ally Bill Pulte as the acting Director of National Intelligence (DNI), a move that has sparked criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans, Reuters reported.

The appointment, announced on Tuesday (June 2), places the 38-year-old Pulte in charge of overseeing 18 US intelligence agencies despite having no prior professional experience in intelligence or national security.

Pulte currently serves as the Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) and Chairman of government-backed mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Trump said he would continue holding those positions while also serving as the nation’s top intelligence official.

In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump praised Pulte, saying he has extensive experience managing some of America’s most sensitive issues and oversees more than $10 trillion in assets.

As acting DNI, Pulte will supervise key intelligence organizations, including the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the National Security Agency (NSA), and other major intelligence bodies.

Former Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard announced last month that she would step down on June 30. While she cited her husband’s illness as the reason for her departure, several reports suggested disagreements with the White House may also have contributed to her decision.

The appointment has drawn criticism across the political spectrum. Republican Senator John Cornyn questioned Pulte’s qualifications, stating, “I see no evidence of any qualifications to perform this duty.”

Senate Democratic Leader Charles Schumer also criticized the decision, describing Pulte as a partisan figure and arguing that someone who has made unsubstantiated allegations against political opponents should not be entrusted with a national security role of such importance.

Under US law, Pulte can serve as acting director for up to 210 days without Senate confirmation, allowing him to remain in the position until around the November midterm elections.

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