Trump says he wants Bill Pulte to ‘start the process’ of shrinking intelligence office President Trump stated his desire for Bill Pulte to initiate workforce reductions and downsizing at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), which he believes is “unnecessary” and “too big.” Trump suggested the ODNI “should maybe even be terminated” and that Pulte, in an acting role, has more power to implement such changes. An ODNI official mentioned prior staff reductions and savings, expressing willingness to work with Pulte on further initiatives.

• President Trump wants Bill Pulte to begin shrinking the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI).
• Trump described the ODNI as “unnecessary” or “too big” and suggested it “should maybe even be terminated.”
• The president believes Pulte, in an acting capacity, has more power to make changes.
• An ODNI official noted previous staff cuts and savings, expressing a desire to work with Pulte.
• Trump is also considering Pulte for permanent director and has mentioned Pulte investigating “rigged elections.”
• Concerns exist about Pulte’s qualifications due to a lack of national security experience, and some lawmakers may oppose his oversight of intelligence agencies.