Bolton Calls Trump's Bill Pulte DNI Pick Incomprehensible as Senate Republicans Balk Within 24 Hours
Updated
Updated · WBUR News · Jun 3
Bolton Calls Trump's Bill Pulte DNI Pick Incomprehensible as Senate Republicans Balk Within 24 Hours
3 articles · Updated · WBUR News · Jun 3
Summary
Bill Pulte's selection as acting director of national intelligence drew a blunt rebuke from John Bolton, who said the FHFA chief's lack of national security experience "speaks for itself."
Bolton warned the acting DNI could gain access to all U.S. intelligence and might try to use the post for political retribution, citing Pulte's moves against Trump's perceived enemies in his housing role.
Within 24 hours of the announcement, Bolton said several Senate Republicans were already criticizing the choice or signaling it should not advance, even as the acting designation lets Trump bypass Senate confirmation.
Bolton also said foreign intelligence partners, already unsettled by Tulsi Gabbard's tenure, could further restrict information-sharing if Pulte takes over, risking the loss of important intelligence built on decades of trust.