Story perspectives

Trump pushes third intel staff cuts, Clayton hearing scheduled

7/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Acting Director Bill Pulte announced a third round of intelligence-community staff cuts on July 10, 2026.
President Donald Trump urged the agency to shrink its workforce, prompting the cuts.
Critics say Pulte’s lack of security experience could lead him to weaponize intelligence against political opponents.
A Senate hearing for Trump nominee Jay Clayton to head the intelligence community is scheduled for July 15, after former director Tulsi Gabbard left on June 19.

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Story summary

Acting Director Bill Pulte announced a third round of intelligence-community staff cuts on July 10, 2026.
President Donald Trump urged the agency to shrink its workforce, prompting the cuts.
Critics say Pulte’s lack of security experience could lead him to weaponize intelligence against political opponents.
A Senate hearing for Trump nominee Jay Clayton to head the intelligence community is scheduled for July 15, after former director Tulsi Gabbard left on June 19.