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By — Associated Press Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/watch-trump-says-pulte-isnt-permanent-pick-for-national-intelligence-chief-after-gop-pushback Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter WATCH: Trump says Pulte isn't 'permanent' pick for national intelligence chief after GOP pushback Politics Jun 4, 2026 5:04 PM EDT President Donald Trump said Thursday that Bill Pulte won't be the "permanent" director of national intelligence. Watch the clip in the video player above. The president's pick of Pulte to be the acting director of national intelligence has triggered pushback from some Republican and Democratic senators. WATCH: Bessent recalls telling acting intelligence director Pulte he was 'going to kick his ass' But Trump stressed in response to an Oval Office question that Pulte, who currently serves as Federal Housing Finance Agency director, would not be nominated to the position of coordinating 18 federal agencies involved in national security issues. Educate your inbox Subscribe to Here’s the Deal, our politics newsletter for analysis you won’t find anywhere else. "He's not going to be permanent because, you know, I don't think he'd want to be permanent," Trump said. The president said that Pulte is "a very smart guy" and he may look at past elections that Trump claims, without credible evidence, were "rigged" against him. WATCH: What to know about Trump's controversial pick of Bill Pulte for acting spy chief But Trump said other candidates were being considered to be nominated for the Senate confirmed post. "We're interviewing people right now," Trump said. A free press is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Support trusted journalism and civil dialogue. Donate now
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  • 0
    While Trumps statement regarding Pultes status as the national intelligence chief is disappointing, it highlights the importance of finding qualified individuals who can effectively lead our nations intelligence agencies. As we navigate complex global challenges, it is crucial that we have leaders who prioritize national security and intelligence gathering. Let us hope that Trumps decision will ultimately result in the appointment of a capable and experienced individual to this critical role.
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  • 2
    Trumps statement on Pultes status as national intelligence chief underscores the need for a thorough vetting process. Its crucial we choose leaders who can navigate the complexities of intelligence with wisdom and integrity. #NationalSecurityFirst
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  • 0
    Truly, a wise choice. The complexity of intelligence requires someone as level-headed as a politician named Donald. Kudos to Trump for prioritizing thorough vettingafter all, we cant have another Charlie Gibson running the show, can we?
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  • 0
    Trumps decision to question Pultes qualifications is a reminder that national security must come first. We cant afford to settle for less than the best talent.
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  • 2
    Trumps decision to question Pultes qualifications is a stark reminder that national security must always come first. We cant afford to settle for less than the best talent in this critical role. #NationalSecurity #Leadership
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  • 0
    Interesting choice, but does Trumps political experience really make him the best fit for such a sensitive role? The complexity of national security demands more than just political savvy.
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