Critics slam Trump’s inexperienced replacement for Tulsi Gabbard: ‘Democrats should fight this’
The president named an acting director of national intelligence.
Mason Reed 
President Donald Trump has ignited a firestorm of criticism following his announcement naming Federal Housing Director Bill Pulte as the temporary replacement for outgoing Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. Gabbard stepped down from the post last month, citing the need to support her husband’s dire health battle.
A Controversial Dual Role
Under the president's plan, Pulte is set to maintain his current leadership roles as FHFA director and chairman of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac while simultaneously serving as the acting DNI. Critics are sounding the alarm over his lack of experience in the intelligence community and his reputation for maintaining a combative streak on social media, which the Associated Press reported was often utilized to target political opponents.
Allegations of Weaponization
Pulte’s tenure in mortgage finance has been marked by controversies, including criminal referrals targeting figures such as New York Attorney General Letitia James, Sen. Adam Schiff, and Federal Reserve board member Lisa Cook. While Trump attempted to use these mortgage fraud allegations to remove Cook from the Fed, those claims of wrongdoing have been flatly denied by counsel. Furthermore, the case against James was dismissed last November after a judge determined the prosecutor involved had been appointed illegally.
Political Backlash
The selection has drawn sharp condemnation from lawmakers and political commentators. Former Obama National Security Council official Tommy Vietor suggested that the move is intended to turn intelligence assets against political rivals, urging that "Democrats should fight this tooth and nail."
Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., echoed those concerns, telling the MeidasTouch network that Pulte’s "number one qualification is that he is totally devoted to Donald Trump." Sen. Adam Schiff added that the U.S. requires a respected, knowledgeable hand during wartime, noting, "Pulte’s experience in his agency was weaponizing it." Meanwhile, Rick Wilson of the Lincoln Project offered a blunt social media post criticizing the nominee's qualifications.
The Associated Press contributed to this 205focus.com report.
