Story perspectives

Bill Pulte Retains DNI Role Amid Criticism, Gabbard Departs

6/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Bill Pulte, who filed referrals against Letitia James, Adam Schiff and Lisa Cook after a threat from Scott Bessent, will keep his housing-finance roles as director of national intelligence.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune urges to seek a professional, not politicized, DNI.
Tulsi Gabbard will leave DNI post on June 30, citing husband’s bone-cancer diagnosis.
Mark Warner, a committee member, warns Bill Pulte lacks experience and use role for retribution.

History

Historical Context

The 2004 Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act, passed after the 9/11 Commission, created the Director of National Intelligence to oversee 16 agencies with a $2.5 billion budget; John Negroponte became the first DNI in 2005. Today, Senate leaders John Thune and Mark Warner are questioning Bill Pulte’s nomination, fearing a return to politicized intelligence.

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Story summary

Bill Pulte, who filed referrals against Letitia James, Adam Schiff and Lisa Cook after a threat from Scott Bessent, will keep his housing-finance roles as director of national intelligence.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune urges to seek a professional, not politicized, DNI.
Tulsi Gabbard will leave DNI post on June 30, citing husband’s bone-cancer diagnosis.
Mark Warner, a committee member, warns Bill Pulte lacks experience and use role for retribution.

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