Jay Clayton was sworn in as the director of national intelligence on Monday, taking over the position from Bill Pulte. The transition occurred sooner than an initial plan that would have allowed Pulte two additional weeks to finalize agency cuts and for Clayton to conclude his work as a prosecutor in New York.
Pulte announced his departure over the weekend, stating, “After speaking with President Trump and Jay Clayton, we have decided the DNI transition will take place this coming Monday.”
Clayton, who was approved by the Senate last week, expressed his outlook for the agency. "The safety and security of the American people will be our North Star," Clayton said in a statement. He added that he looked "forward to leading an organization and community that is streamlined, agile, team-oriented, and mission-focused."
Pulte's tenure at the intelligence agency was marked by significant staff reductions and the declassification of intelligence related to the 2020 election. Between layoffs and the return of on-loan personnel to their home agencies, Pulte oversaw a 30% decrease in DNI staff. He also declassified intelligence that President Trump later cited in July accusations of Chinese interference in the election.
Both Pulte and Clayton attended a Cabinet meeting with President Trump at Camp David on Friday, representing the agency. When asked about directives for Clayton, President Trump stated, “Just do a great job,” and regarding continuing Pulte’s work, the president said, “I want him to do what he wants to do. He’s outstanding.”
Clayton succeeds Tulsi Gabbard, who served as the first Senate-confirmed DNI under Trump. Gabbard stepped down earlier in the summer to care for her husband, who has cancer.