President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that he has appointed Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence, following the departure of Tulsi Gabbard from the position.
Trump revealed the decision in a post on Truth Social, describing Pulte as a leader with extensive experience managing complex and sensitive financial systems. The move places him in charge of the nation’s intelligence apparatus on an interim basis while he continues to lead his existing federal role.
“William has deep experience managing the most sensitive matters in America, the safety and soundness of the Markets, and over 10 Trillion Dollars at Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac, a substantial increase from where it was just 12 months ago,” Trump wrote.
The president also confirmed that Pulte will retain his current positions as Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency and Chairman of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac while serving in the acting intelligence role.
“During this period, he will remain Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, and Chairman of Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac. Congratulations to Director Pulte!” Trump added.
The appointment comes amid a broader reshuffling within key federal agencies, as the administration continues to adjust leadership roles across national security and economic oversight positions. Supporters of the move argue that bringing in officials with experience managing large, complex systems can strengthen coordination between financial oversight and national security functions.
The intelligence community plays a central role in shaping U.S. foreign policy and national security decisions, making leadership appointments to the office closely watched in Washington. Acting directors often serve during transitional periods while long-term appointments are considered.
For now, Pulte’s dual role places him at the center of both economic oversight and intelligence coordination—an unusual combination that reflects the administration’s broader approach to staffing key positions with officials drawn from a variety of government sectors.
