Pulte set to take acting intelligence post amid Senate standoff

Bill Pulte is expected to become acting director of national intelligence on Friday, giving him access to some of the U.S. government’s most sensitive intelligence material. The move comes after President Donald Trump blocked an effort to speed up the Senate confirmation of Jay Clayton for the permanent job. Trump said he would not move ahead unless lawmakers also passed a voter ID and proof of citizenship elections bill and confirmed another Justice Department pick. The decision has drawn criticism from Democrats and some Republicans, who argue Pulte lacks intelligence experience and could politicize the role. The dispute is also complicating talks over renewing Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, a major surveillance authority used by U.S. spy agencies.