The FHFA director will lead the U.S. intelligence community on an acting basis despite having no prior national security experience.
President Donald Trump has selected Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte to serve as acting director of national intelligence, replacing departing intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard in a move that surprised many observers inside Washington.
Trump announced the appointment Tuesday, praising Pulte’s management experience and describing him as someone capable of handling sensitive national responsibilities. The president said Pulte will continue serving as director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency while simultaneously leading the nation’s intelligence community on an acting basis.
Gabbard’s Departure Created Opening
The appointment follows Gabbard’s resignation announcement last month.
Gabbard said she would leave her position effective June 30 to help care for her husband, who was recently diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer. Her departure marked the fourth Cabinet-level exit of Trump’s second term.
At the time of her resignation, Trump indicated that Principal Deputy DNI Aaron Lukas would serve as acting intelligence chief after her departure. The decision to instead elevate Pulte represents a significant change in plans.
Who Is Bill Pulte?
Bill Pulte, 38, currently oversees the Federal Housing Finance Agency, which regulates mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
An heir to the Pulte homebuilding fortune, he was confirmed by the Senate in March 2025 and has become one of Trump’s most visible allies within the administration. As FHFA director, he oversees institutions responsible for more than $10 trillion in housing-related assets.
Pulte has frequently attracted headlines for his aggressive public criticism of Trump’s political opponents and for referring alleged misconduct cases involving prominent Democrats to federal authorities.
Questions About Intelligence Experience
The appointment is already drawing attention because Pulte has no formal military, intelligence, or national security background.
The Office of the Director of National Intelligence oversees 18 separate intelligence agencies, including the CIA, NSA, and National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. Traditionally, the position has been filled by officials with extensive intelligence, military, diplomatic, or national security experience.
Trump defended the choice by pointing to Pulte’s leadership experience and management of large financial institutions, arguing those skills translate well to overseeing complex government operations.
Timing Raises Stakes
Pulte assumes the role during a period of heightened geopolitical tension.
The intelligence community is currently monitoring ongoing conflicts involving Iran, escalating military activity in several regions, and a series of threats against U.S. officials. His appointment places a trusted Trump ally at the center of national security decision-making during a particularly volatile period.
If Trump later nominates Pulte to serve permanently as director of national intelligence, he would need Senate confirmation. For now, he will serve in an acting capacity while retaining his current housing finance responsibilities.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
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