Key facts
- President Trump wants acting DNI Bill Pulte to reduce ODNI staff.
- Trump cited holdovers from Obama and Biden administrations as targets.
- Trump described the ODNI as 'unnecessary and/or too big'.
- Pulte's acting status allows him to make changes before a permanent nominee.
- Senator Tom Cotton supports downsizing or eliminating the ODNI.
- ODNI was established in 2004 to improve intelligence agency coordination.
President Donald Trump has indicated his desire for the soon-to-be acting Director of National Intelligence, Bill Pulte, to begin shrinking the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) before a permanent chief is confirmed. Trump stated that he wants Pulte to streamline the ODNI, describing the office as 'unnecessary and/or too big' and that he wants the acting chief to 'start the process' of reducing personnel. He specifically mentioned targeting employees who previously worked for Democratic administrations, such as those from the Obama and Biden administrations. Trump suggested that Pulte's temporary, acting status would make it easier to implement these changes, as he would be 'less shackled' and could complete much of the 'hard work' before a permanent nominee takes over. Senator Tom Cotton has publicly endorsed this effort, arguing that the ODNI has expanded beyond its original mandate and advocating for its downsizing or elimination. The ODNI was established in 2004 to enhance coordination among U.S. intelligence agencies following the 9/11 Commission's recommendations. Pulte, currently the director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, was named acting DNI in early June and can serve in this capacity for up to 210 days without Senate confirmation. His appointment has drawn criticism from some lawmakers due to his lack of intelligence or national security background. The ODNI official noted former director Tulsi Gabbard reduced the agency's staff by nearly 50% and cut the budget by over $700 million annually. Trump defended Pulte's lack of experience, stating it could be beneficial for him to 'shake it up.'