Donald Trump has suggested that his ally Bill Pulte will investigate “rigged elections” while serving as acting director of national intelligence, continuing the president’s unfounded allegations about voting. Pulte, who is director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, was appointed to the temporary role earlier this week.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Trump said Pulte’s tenure would be short-term, stating: “He’s not going to be permanent because, you know, I don’t think he’d want to be permanent.” Trump praised Pulte’s “energy” and “high integrity”, adding: “Again, it’s short term, but he may be very effective for a short period.”
Pulte, a staunch Trump loyalist, lacks national intelligence experience. His appointment follows the exit of Tulsi Gabbard. Trump claimed Pulte “may find out some things about the rigged elections, etc, etc”. Earlier on Thursday, Trump alleged without evidence that Democrats were cheating in California’s primaries, and claimed the US attorney’s office in Los Angeles was investigating; the office declined to comment.
Pulte’s selection has drawn bipartisan criticism. Senate Republican majority leader John Thune said: “We don’t need a weaponised” national intelligence director, adding that Pulte would have a “lengthy road ahead” if nominated permanently. “We need professionals here,” Thune said. Republican senator Mitch McConnell indirectly expressed disapproval, stating that anyone in the role must have “extensive national security experience”.
Senator Mark Warner, the top Democrat on the intelligence committee, said: “Rather than selecting a respected national security professional capable of delivering independent judgments, the president has chosen an official who has demonstrated not just willingness but eagerness to use the authorities of government to pursue political retribution.”
Pulte gained national attention last year when he referred several figures, including Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook and New York attorney general Letitia James, for mortgage fraud. Critics viewed the allegations as weak and politically motivated.
