President Donald Trump announced Bill Pulte, head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), as the acting Director of National Intelligence (DNI) on June 2, 2026, after Tulsi Gabbard declared her resignation effective June 30 [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7]. Pulte, who has no prior experience in intelligence or national security, will retain his role as FHFA director and chairman of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac while serving in the acting DNI role [1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8].

Trump praised Pulte’s management of the government-controlled mortgage agencies overseeing more than $10 trillion in mortgages, saying, "William has deep experience managing the most sensitive matters in America, the safety and soundness of the Markets, and over 10 Trillion Dollars at Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac." [1]. He also encouraged Pulte to reduce staff in the Office of the Director of National Intelligence [9].

The appointment faced immediate criticism from Democrats and some Republican senators. Senate Intelligence Committee Chair Mark Warner condemned the choice, saying Pulte has shown "not just willingness but eagerness to use the authorities of government to pursue political retribution," adding, "What qualifications from my standpoint does Mr Pulte bring to the office? ... he is willing to do anything that President Trump wants, legal or otherwise." [1, 3, 10, 11]. Senator John Thune called for professionals in national intelligence rather than a "weaponized" director [11]. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said no nominee lacking extensive national security experience would receive his vote [11].

Pulte has publicly pursued allegations of mortgage fraud against Trump’s political opponents, including Senator Adam Schiff, Attorney General Letitia James, and Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, though none have led to successful prosecutions [1, 4, 7, 8]. The Government Accountability Office is investigating FHFA practices under Pulte's leadership [1].

Trump indicated Pulte will serve only temporarily as acting DNI and will not be nominated permanently due to lack of Senate support and Pulte’s preferences. The maximum acting term without confirmation is 120 days [11, 12, 7, 8]. Trump suggested Pulte could investigate claims of "rigged elections" during his short tenure [11, 12].

The appointment has sparked doubts about the renewal of section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, with a deadline of June 12 approaching [10].

Tulsi Gabbard remains DNI until June 30, when Pulte will fully assume acting control until a permanent successor is nominated [1, 6, 7, 8].