President Trump announced on Tuesday that Bill Pulte, who leads the Federal Housing Finance Agency, would serve as acting director of national intelligence in place of Tulsi Gabbard. Pulte is viewed as a devoted Trump supporter who has often focused on the president’s political rivals, yet he brings no experience in intelligence work. The choice prompted immediate objections from Democrats, and the Senate’s leading Republican voiced reservations as well.

As acting DNI, Pulte will supervise the nation’s 18 intelligence agencies while continuing in his housing post, according to the president’s social media statement. White House correspondent Liz Landers provides further details on the appointment and its implications.

Pulte stems from the Pulte Group homebuilding business and was born in Florida. At age 38, he currently directs the Federal Housing Finance Agency and chairs both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. His background in national security remains unclear. When reporters questioned CMS administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz about the required extensive national security expertise, Oz replied that the query fell outside his focus on American health and that he had not reviewed other agencies.

Dr. Oz added that he trusts the president’s judgment on the selection. President Trump defended Pulte on Truth Social by noting his experience handling sensitive matters tied to market safety and more than $10 trillion at Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Pulte has developed a close working relationship with the president through his housing role. In January, he spoke with reporters about pursuing investigations into perceived opponents such as New York Attorney General Letitia James and Federal Reserve member Lisa Cook, citing mortgage fraud claims. He described James as guilty and highlighted similar issues with Cook.

Over the past year, Pulte has pressed Justice Department officials on such prosecutions and aligned with activist Ed Martin, who led the Department of Justice Weaponization Task Force. On Capitol Hill, the move raises questions because Gabbard underwent a full confirmation process. Democratic Senator Chris Coons stated that placing someone whose main qualification is aiding the president against political enemies poses risks and warrants Senate opposition.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune told reporters that a weaponized DNI is unnecessary and that professionals belong in the role, adding that any permanent appointment would face a lengthy review. Republican Senator John Cornyn noted a lack of evidence for qualifications. One Trump ally countered that loyalty to the president often outweighs exact credentials in appointments across administrations.