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Jay Clayton Confirmed DNI as Pulte Orders 30% Staff Cuts

8/2/2026

Summary

Jay Clayton Appointed

Jay Clayton, U.S. attorney for the District of New York, will become Director of National Intelligence Monday.
Republican senators confirmed his nomination this week despite Democratic opposition.
Acting Director Bill Pulte, who became DNI in June, ordered staff layoffs.
Clayton will oversee 18 intelligence agencies and replaces Tulsi Gabbard, who left the post.
Democrats criticized him for refusing to acknowledge that U.S. President Donald Trump lost the 2020 election.

Summary

Pulte Cuts Staff

Bill Pulte announced a fifth round of firings that will cut roughly 30% of ODNI staff.
Pulte said his term will overlap with Jay Clayton for at least two weeks after the swearing-in.
John Ratcliffe, CIA Director, clashed with Pulte over how much of the 2020 election interference documents to release.
Critics warn Pulte may weaponize intelligence, citing his prior FHFA work on mortgage-fraud investigations of President Donald Trump's opponents.

Summary

Pulte Demands Delay

Bill Pulte asked President Donald Trump to postpone Jay Clayton’s oath and posted July 31 on X about a meeting with the National Counterterrorism Center.
Senators Ron Wyden, Mark Warner, Angus King, James Lankford and Mark Kelly called the delay bizarre, warning it would hinder FISA renewal.
White House officials said Bill Pulte should leave Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) and could be eyed for a cabinet role.

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Jay Clayton Appointed

Jay Clayton, U.S. attorney for the District of New York, will become Director of National Intelligence Monday.
Republican senators confirmed his nomination this week despite Democratic opposition.
Acting Director Bill Pulte, who became DNI in June, ordered staff layoffs.
Clayton will oversee 18 intelligence agencies and replaces Tulsi Gabbard, who left the post.
Democrats criticized him for refusing to acknowledge that U.S. President Donald Trump lost the 2020 election.

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