Transcript: Rep. Jim Himes on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," June 7, 2026
Summary
Representative Jim Himes, a Democrat on the Intelligence Committee, criticized President Donald Trump’s appointment of Bill Pulte as Acting Director of National Intelligence, saying Pulte lacks national security experience. Himes also explained that Congress has limited power to stop this temporary appointment, which comes at a sensitive time for renewing key intelligence surveillance authority.Key Facts
- President Donald Trump appointed Bill Pulte, head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, as Acting Director of National Intelligence.
- The appointment is temporary but can last over 200 days without needing Senate approval.
- Bill Pulte was confirmed by the Senate for the housing position but has no known national security background.
- Some Republicans and Democrats have expressed concern or outrage over this appointment.
- This appointment took place shortly before the expiration of the FISA 702 surveillance authority, a key intelligence collection tool.
- FISA 702 allows the government to collect foreign intelligence, and its renewal has been controversial.
- Republican senators warned the White House about a likely lapse in surveillance if the authorization is not extended.
- Congress has limited ability to block Pulte’s acting role in intelligence.
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