Trump presses on with plan to install Bill Pulte as acting intelligence chief | US politics
US politics | The Guardian — 2026-06-10 13:42:00 — www.theguardian.com
Donald Trump Doubles Down on Controversial Intelligence Appointment, Demands Extension of Surveillance Law
Donald Trump has stood firm on his decision to install Bill Pulte, a controversial loyalist with no national security experience, as the country’s top intelligence official. In a Truth Social post, Trump accused Democrats of “playing politics with the country’s safety” after US senators—including seven Republicans—blocked the extension of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), a powerful government surveillance program set to expire this week.
Trump insisted, “FISA 702 is very important to our Military, and keeping the American People safe, especially during the World Cup and America250 Celebrations. If nothing is done, this important Law will expire this week. I am asking Congress to send me a short-term extension of FISA to provide time for the selection and confirmation of a permanent Head of the Agency.” Trump’s call for an extension came amid intense criticism of his move to appoint Pulte, who has been asked “to execute the immediate and needed downsizing” of the office of the director of national intelligence.
Despite widespread concern over Pulte’s lack of national security credentials, Trump has pushed forward, stating on social media that Pulte is already working with outgoing director Tulsi Gabbard and will take her place on June 19, while continuing to head the federal mortgage agency. Gabbard had previously announced her resignation effective June 30, but Trump offered no explanation for the early transition.
Trump has also suggested in public comments that he expects Pulte, once installed, to investigate elections that Trump has repeatedly and falsely claimed were “rigged.” This stance has alarmed lawmakers, who fear the office’s surveillance powers could be used to target Trump’s perceived political enemies.
The appointment has drawn bipartisan criticism, with many Senate Republicans urging the White House to nominate a full-time, confirmable candidate. Democratic lawmakers have warned that Pulte’s appointment would derail efforts to renew Section 702, a program already mired in controversy over its potential to sweep up Americans’ communications without a warrant.
Trump’s insistence on a short-term extension and his unwavering support for Pulte, despite bipartisan objections and concerns about abuse of power, highlight his willingness to bypass established norms and processes. The episode underscores ongoing fears about the politicization of national security and the potential misuse of surveillance authorities under Trump’s leadership.
As the deadline for FISA 702 renewal approaches, Trump’s actions and statements continue to fuel debate over the balance between national security, civil liberties, and the integrity of US intelligence leadership.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/10/trump-bill-pulte-intelligence-director