Trump names new acting director of national intelligence

President Donald Trump on Tuesday said he appointed William Pulte, the current head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, to serve as the acting director of national intelligence. Tulsi Gabbard, who currently holds the position, recently announced plans to step down June 30 due to her husband’s recent cancer diagnosis.

As head of the housing finance agency, Pulte had experience overseeing sensitive matters such as the safety and soundness of the housing market, Trump said. Pulte managed the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac programs as well as the Federal Home Loan Bank System. Before he entered the federal government, Pulte had a background in housing investment and urban renewal.

Is Pulte Trump’s long-term pick for the role, or is he filling a gap? The president didn’t specify whether he intended to seek congressional approval to officially install Pulte in the position. However, he said that Pulte would continue to lead the Federal Housing Finance Agency while also serving as acting director of national intelligence.

Dig deeper: Read Josh Schumacher’s report for more on Gabbard’s resignation.