The swearing-in ceremony for newly confirmed Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton has been postponed for several weeks. This delay will allow acting DNI Bill Pulte to finalize ongoing downsizing efforts within the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), which have already resulted in a 30% reduction in office staff through layoffs and the return of on-loan personnel to their home agencies.
Pulte, who has been leading the ODNI in an acting capacity, announced a fifth round of staff cuts this week, stating on X, "The Intelligence Community must protect the American people, NOT the political whims of the bloated and corrupt elite class." The extended timeline also provides Pulte an opportunity to conclude the release of sensitive information, including material related to the 2020 election. President Trump had previously indicated that Pulte, as head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, could declassify "almost everything" during his temporary tenure at ODNI.
Clayton, a former Manhattan US Attorney, was confirmed by the Senate on July 28 with a 51-47 vote. He is expected to bring his extensive experience in prosecuting terrorism, financial crime, and other complex issues to the intelligence community. During his confirmation hearing, Clayton emphasized that the modern intelligence landscape extends beyond traditional military threats to include financial markets, supply chains, sanctions, energy, and artificial intelligence.
Many lawmakers had expressed a preference for Clayton over Pulte, citing Pulte's lack of a national security background. However, administration officials have noted that Trump has been satisfied with Pulte's performance in the interim role. Both Clayton and Pulte were present at a recent cabinet meeting at Camp David, where Clayton received a round of applause upon being welcomed.
Clayton's predecessor, Tulsi Gabbard, stepped down in June, citing personal reasons. The ODNI has not yet provided a specific date for Clayton's official swearing-in ceremony.