Intel committee lawmakers say they haven’t spoken with Bill Pulte Key congressional intelligence leaders have not yet met with President Trump’s new acting director of national intelligence, Bill Pulte, despite a looming June 12 deadline to reauthorize a crucial surveillance authority. Lawmakers express concerns over Pulte’s lack of national security experience and the potential weaponization of intelligence, which Democrats argue jeopardizes the passage of surveillance legislation. The White House defends Pulte’s selection and criticizes Democrats for allegedly politicizing national security.

• Key congressional intelligence leaders have not met with the new acting Director of National Intelligence, Bill Pulte.
• Congress is under pressure to reauthorize a key surveillance authority before a June 12 deadline.
• Lawmakers question Pulte’s qualifications due to his lack of national security experience.
• Concerns exist that Pulte may weaponize intelligence, similar to past actions in his housing finance role.
• Democrats threaten to oppose FISA reauthorization due to Pulte’s appointment.
• The White House defends Pulte and accuses Democrats of jeopardizing national security for political reasons.