New intel chief is a partisan warrior who has the president’s ear, sources say
Bill Pulte has been appointed as the new acting director of national intelligence, raising concerns among former intelligence officials. His lack of experience in intelligence or national security has led to fears that he may misuse access to sensitive information for political purposes. The White House defends his appointment, citing his loyalty to President Trump and his ability to execute the administration's agenda.
- ▪Bill Pulte will take over as acting director of national intelligence despite having no prior experience in intelligence or national security.
- ▪Former intelligence officials worry that Pulte could use intelligence resources to target political opponents or justify federal oversight of elections.
- ▪The White House supports Pulte's appointment, emphasizing his loyalty to President Trump and his effectiveness in the administration.
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National SecurityNew intel chief is a partisan warrior who has the president’s ear, sources sayFormer intelligence officials worry Bill Pulte will have access to a trove of intelligence and seek retribution against Trump’s political enemies or to try to justify federal intrusion into upcoming elections.Listen to this article with a free account00:0000:00Bill Pulte on Jan. 12.Stefani Reynolds / Bloomberg via Getty ImagesShareAdd NBC News to GoogleJune 3, 2026, 8:42 PM EDTBy Katherine Doyle and Dan De LuceWASHINGTON — The partisan warrior named to serve as the country’s top intelligence official is part of a small circle of trusted allies who won President Donald Trump’s confidence by taking swift action against his prominent Democratic critics, according to three people with knowledge of…
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