Trump appoints new acting US intelligence chief

United States President Donald Trump has named Bill Pulte, a close ally with no prior national security experience, as the acting Director of National Intelligence, while retaining his existing roles overseeing federal housing and mortgage agencies.

Pulte, 38, currently leads the Federal Housing Finance Agency as well as mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and will replace Tulsi Gabbard, who resigned in late May after reportedly clashing with Trump over the administration’s policies on Iran.

“William has deep experience managing the most sensitive matters in America, the safety and soundness of the Markets,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, confirming that Pulte would continue his housing-related responsibilities.

Known for his outspoken political stance, Pulte has publicly attacked Democratic figures, including Senator Adam Schiff and New York Attorney General Letitia James, accusing them of falsifying mortgage documents. Reports indicate that Pulte improperly accessed mortgage records belonging to James and other Democratic officials while at Fannie Mae.

In 2025, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reportedly threatened Pulte at a private dinner over internal disputes. He has also been accused of firing ethics watchdogs investigating allies and has challenged diversity, equity, and inclusion policies at Fannie Mae.

On housing finance, Pulte has championed a controversial 50-year mortgage proposal, drawing criticism even from within the MAGA movement. He also left the family-run PulteGroup board in 2020 following disagreements over the company’s direction.

US media describe Pulte as Trump’s “attack dog,” a figure polarising both inside and outside the administration. His appointment raises questions about experience, political loyalty, and the management of the nation’s top intelligence operations.