Bill Pulte, who served as acting director of national intelligence (DNI), remains in his role despite the Senate confirming Jay Clayton as the new DNI on Tuesday, July 31, 2026. President Trump had previously indicated that Pulte's tenure would be temporary. However, the White House has departed from the usual practice of promptly swearing in the confirmed official, leaving Clayton waiting several days to assume the position.

This delay has frustrated both Democrats and Republicans on the Senate Intelligence Committee. Lawmakers argue it is time for Pulte to step down and return to his prior role as director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) referred to Pulte as "the temp" and emphasized the need to free Clayton to begin his work, allowing the Senate to focus on issues such as the reauthorization of FISA 702. Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) described the situation as "amazing," though "in a horrible way."

During his approximately 40 days at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), Pulte announced via X that he had completed a fifth round of layoffs. The pick of Pulte was unpopular among Senate Republicans and Democrats alike, prompting Trump to clarify his temporary status.

Senators stressed the urgency of reinstating FISA 702, with one stating, "FISA 702 needs to be put back in place as quickly as possible."

A White House spokesperson has not provided a timeline for Clayton's swearing-in. Meanwhile, the delay and ongoing leadership uncertainty at ODNI continue to draw criticism and concern from Capitol Hill.

Sources