Trump pushes to shrink intelligence office before permanent director arrives
ODNI cuts could reshape U.S. intelligence as Trump backs faster downsizing See why lawmakers are divided and what the changes could mean
President Donald Trump says he wants acting Director of National Intelligence Bill Pulte to begin reducing the size of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence before a permanent leader is confirmed.
According to Trump, the office is too large and includes staff he believes should not be there. He said the temporary role gives Pulte more flexibility to make changes quickly.
The ODNI, created after the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations, coordinates the work of 18 U.S. intelligence agencies. Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Tom Cotton backed the effort, while some lawmakers criticized Pulte’s lack of intelligence experience and questioned the plan.