Jay Clayton to Assume DNI Leadership on Monday Following Acting Director's Exit

Acting Director of National Intelligence Bill Pulte announced that Jay Clayton will start the transition to become the new DNI on Monday. Pulte praised President Trump for the chance to lead the agency and highlighted recent declassification efforts and staff reductions. The Senate confirmed Clayton with a 51-47 vote along party lines, following objections to Pulte’s lack of national-security experience and perceived loyalty to Trump.

Clayton, previously the SEC chair and a New York-based U.S. attorney, has overseen high-profile prosecutions including that of former Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. He assumes the post amid a deadlock over renewing Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. Pulte will return to his position heading the federal housing finance agency overseeing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.