Trump orders acting spy chief to begin firing intelligence staff
US President Donald Trump has instructed Bill Pulte, his incoming acting director of national intelligence, to begin dismissing a significant number of employees across the intelligence community, telling The Wall Street Journal that the Office of the Director of National Intelligence has grown too large and unnecessary.
US President Donald Trump said Friday he has directed Bill Pulte — his incoming acting director of national intelligence — to begin dismissals across the US intelligence apparatus, telling The Wall Street Journal that he views the Office of the Director of National Intelligence as bloated and unnecessary.
Restructuring plans
"I'd like to see it smaller. I think there are a lot of people in there that shouldn't be there," Trump told the newspaper. Asked whether he was encouraging Pulte to fire employees, the president said he wants him to "start the process," adding that his eventual nominee for the permanent post should continue the effort.
Surprise appointment
Trump surprised many of his own advisers earlier this week when he named Pulte — currently head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency — as acting director of national intelligence. The appointment does not require Senate confirmation and can last for up to 210 days under federal law.
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Temporary authority
Trump argued that Pulte's temporary status gives him greater flexibility to carry out changes within the intelligence apparatus. "You're less shackled," he said. "It sort of gives you more power, you know, for a somewhat limited period of time."
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