Pulte Moves to Expedite Gabbard's Departure as Intelligence Chief

Bill Pulte, the interim Director of National Intelligence, made an unexpected call to outgoing intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard on Tuesday, informing her that her last day would be that same day. Gabbard, who had previously announced her resignation effective June 30, was taken aback by the abruptness of the request. According to sources, she responded, "I need to hear it from the president or the White House."

The call occurred amidst heightened tensions in Washington following President Trump's appointment of Pulte as Gabbard's temporary replacement. Pulte, who currently serves as the director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, lacks intelligence experience and security clearance, raising bipartisan concerns in Congress. His appointment has stalled negotiations over the reauthorization of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA).

Political Fallout

The situation escalated further when Gabbard reached out directly to President Trump, who did not demand her immediate resignation. Instead, Trump asked Gabbard for a preferred departure date, ultimately settling on June 19. Trump later confirmed the new timeline on his Truth Social account and reiterated Pulte's temporary role until a Senate-confirmed nominee is found.

"Nobody seems to know what the f**k is going on," said one administration official regarding the confusion surrounding Pulte's appointment.

Background and Controversy

Pulte, a Florida-based developer with longstanding ties to Trump, reportedly secured the interim position by promising to overhaul the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI). His plans include dismissing staff deemed ineffective or sympathetic to Democrats, a move that has drawn criticism from within the administration.

Meanwhile, Congress remains deadlocked over FISA reauthorization, with Pulte's appointment further complicating negotiations. "We were so close to FISA passing, and then this Pulte thing blew it up," remarked one congressional ally of Trump.

Despite the controversy, Trump has reaffirmed his support for Pulte, signaling that the temporary appointment will stand as the administration navigates the fallout.