President Trump said Tuesday he will appoint William J. Pulte, the director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, to serve as acting Director of National Intelligence after the departure of Tulsi Gabbard.
Mr. Trump’s decision, announced on social media, installs one of his staunchest supporters and attack dogs in a key role overseeing national secrets.
Mr. Pulte’s background is in investments and real estate, making him an unusual choice for the role, though Mr. Trump defended his credentials.
“William has deep experience managing the most sensitive matters in America, the safety and soundness of the Markets, and over 10 Trillion Dollars at Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac, a substantial increase from where it was just 12 months ago. During this period, he will remain Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, and Chairman of Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac,” Mr. Trump wrote.
Mr. Pulte, 38, gained prominence last year for his aggressive moves to investigate certain persons for alleged mortgage fraud, including political targets such as New York Attorney General Letitia James, Sen. Adam B. Schiff of California and Federal Reserve Board of Governors member Lisa Cook.
None of those have resulted in convictions.
Mr. Trump is filling the national intelligence role because Ms. Gabbard, a former congresswoman, announced her resignation to focus on her husband’s battle with cancer.
