Trump Names Controversial Housing Official Bill Pulte as Acting Director of National Intelligence President Trump has appointed Bill Pulte, the director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, as the acting director of national intelligence. Pulte’s tenure at FHFA has been marked by controversial criminal referrals against political opponents, sparking an investigation by the Government Accountability Office. His appointment has been met with strong criticism from Democrats who question his qualifications and suggest his selection is politically motivated.

• Bill Pulte, director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), has been named acting director of national intelligence.
• Pulte has faced scrutiny for directing criminal referrals for mortgage fraud against several political figures, who deny wrongdoing.
• The Government Accountability Office is investigating FHFA’s mortgage fraud investigation procedures.
• Pulte will continue his roles at FHFA and as chairman of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
• Democrats and some independent senators have expressed concerns about Pulte’s lack of national security experience and the political implications of his appointment.
• The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) has undergone significant restructuring under its previous director, Tulsi Gabbard.