Trump says Bill Pulte will only serve in an acting capacity as DNI
NBC News
Last updated: June 5, 2026
President Donald Trump announced that Bill Pulte, his newly appointed acting Director of National Intelligence, will not be considered for the permanent role. This decision follows significant criticism from members of Trump's own Republican party regarding Pulte's lack of relevant experience.
- President Trump stated that the position is acting and not permanent, and he believes Pulte would not want it permanently.
- Republican senators expressed concerns about Pulte's qualifications for leading intelligence agencies.
- Senator Thom Tillis questioned Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent about a reported threat to physically attack Pulte, to which Bessent admitted to saying he would "kick his ass."
- Senator Marco Rubio indicated he was unaware of Pulte in the context of the intelligence community.
- Senator Mitch McConnell emphasized the statutory requirement for extensive national security experience for the Director of National Intelligence, stating he would not vote for a nominee who lacks it.
- A permanent nomination for Pulte would have required a Senate majority for confirmation, facing potential opposition from Senate Republicans.
- Trump suggested Pulte might investigate "rigged elections" during his tenure.
- The text also mentions a past visit by Tulsi Gabbard to an elections hub during an FBI raid, drawing criticism for a spy chief's involvement in domestic law enforcement, though she stated Trump requested her presence.
