CNN: Pulte Plans Layoffs at US Intelligence Agencies

According to CNN, Bill Pulte, the acting director of national intelligence, is seeking to eliminate hundreds of jobs at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. The network cited two sources familiar with the matter.

Pulte, an ally of President Donald Trump who previously served as a federal housing regulator, was reportedly set to take office a day early and requested a list of all employees in order to assess potential layoffs. The agency did not immediately comment on the report.

Democrat Jim Himes, of the House Intelligence Committee, said that if the information was true, it confirmed, in his view, that Pulte should not hold the position. He also said the committee would closely oversee Pulte's decisions.

Trump appointed Pulte as acting director of national intelligence earlier this month, promoting him to the role despite his lack of experience in national security. He will replace Tulsi Gabbard, who resigned last month and will leave office on Friday.

(Reuters, bak)