Trump's Controversial Intelligence Pick Sparks Standoff With Dems Over Warrantless Spy Powers

President Donald Trump's decision to install housing finance official Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence has triggered a standoff in Congress that now threatens renewal of a key U.S. surveillance authority set to expire this week.

Lawmakers from both parties have raised concerns about Pulte's lack of intelligence or national security experience, while Democrats have warned they may refuse to support renewal of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act if he remains in the position.

Section 702 allows U.S. intelligence agencies to collect communications from foreign nationals overseas without a warrant, though critics have long argued the program can also sweep up Americans' data.

Rep. Jim Himes of Connecticut, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, told The Hill that giving Pulte oversight of the surveillance authority would be like "putting a machine gun in the hands of a five year old boy." Sen. Angus King, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, similarly told the outlet that "you don't give the keys to the car to a 13 year old."

The dispute has complicated already fragile negotiations over renewing the program before Friday's expiration deadline. Senate Republicans hold 53 seats, meaning any extension would likely require Democratic support to clear the 60-vote threshold.

Trump announced on Truth Social that Pulte would assume the acting role on June 19 while also remaining director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency and chairman of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. According to Fox News, Trump has also privately encouraged Pulte to reduce the size of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, which coordinates 18 intelligence agencies.

The appointment drew criticism from several Republicans as well. Sen. John Cornyn told NBC News he was still "seeking any evidence of qualifications," while Senate Majority Leader John Thune said the White House was "weighing seriously" a permanent nominee who could help unlock bipartisan support for FISA renewal.

Supporters of the administration argue Democrats are politicizing national security with White House spokesperson Davis Ingle saying that "holding FISA hostage puts America's national security at risk."

The debate comes as Congress faces pressure to renew Section 702 amid heightened tensions with Iran and major upcoming events in the United States, including the FIFA World Cup and celebrations tied to the country's 250th anniversary.