Trump Offers Short-Term ODNI Role for Pulte as FISA Deadline Nears
President Trump announced he is seeking a replacement for the temporary ODNI chief and asked Congress for a short-term extension of Section 702 authorities. The move follows objections from some lawmakers over the nominee's qualifications.
nationalpost.comThe announcement came after Senate Democrats raised concerns about Bill Pulte, the current Federal Housing Finance Agency director whom Trump named to serve temporarily at ODNI starting June 19. Pulte has no prior intelligence experience.
A bipartisan three-year reauthorization bill with Section 702 reforms had been negotiated by the Senate Intelligence Committee but stalled after the ODNI appointment. Six Republicans joined most Democrats to block a procedural vote last week. Trump told reporters the Pulte appointment would be brief.
"I would say this, [Pulte is] going to be there for a short while, while we pick somebody else," he said.
Lawmakers are considering a three-week extension.
Some Democrats indicated they might support it if a permanent replacement is named soon, while others said an indefinite timeline would prevent their backing. Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Democratic votes are needed regardless of the ODNI decision.
Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin noted that existing court orders allow Section 702 collection to continue for up to one year even without new legislation.
