Trump Taps Housing Finance Director Pulte as Acting Director of National Intelligence After Gabbard

President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday via Truth Social that he has selected William Pulte, the director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) and chairman of mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, to serve as acting director of national intelligence. The surprise appointment comes after the resignation of Tulsi Gabbard, who had held the position.

Pulte, known for his role in housing finance regulation, will now oversee the nation's intelligence community on an interim basis. The announcement did not specify a timeline for Pulte's tenure or whether a permanent replacement would be nominated.

The move has drawn attention due to Pulte's lack of direct intelligence experience, though his leadership in financial oversight is noted.