Firings now underway at Office of Director of National Intelligence, source says
CNN • • nation
Key Points:
- Acting Director of National Intelligence Bill Pulte has begun implementing large-scale job cuts at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), targeting hundreds of positions, including at the National Counterterrorism Center and the National Counterintelligence and Security Center.
- Senate and House Intelligence Committee leaders, including Sen. Mark Warner and Rep. Jim Himes, have warned Pulte against making significant workforce reductions, citing risks to national security and the importance of ODNI's mission.
- President Trump publicly supported the downsizing, instructing Pulte to reduce staff and revert employees to their home agencies, despite concerns from intelligence officials and lawmakers.
- Pulte's appointment as acting director has caused controversy among Trump’s advisers and Capitol Hill, with efforts underway to confirm a permanent director amid fears Pulte may intensify investigations related to the 2020 election.
- Pulte began his role early, meeting with staff and lawyers, and oversees 18 intelligence agencies, though the duration of his tenure remains uncertain.
