Trump says Pulte won’t be permanent national intelligence director

Trump’s comment came two days after he tapped Pulte, who leads the Federal Housing Finance Agency as acting DNI.

The move sparked criticism on Capitol Hill, where lawmakers decried his lack of intelligence experience and his history as an attack dog for Trump.

“It’s not a permanent, he’s not going to be permanent, because you know, I don’t think he’d want to be permanent,” Trump told reporters at the White House on Thursday when asked why he thinks Pulte is the best person for the job.

“He’s a very smart guy, and you may find out some things about the rigged elections, etc., etc.”

Trump also said, “We’re interviewing people right now” for the DNI post.

Pulte is “somebody just to take it over for a little while,” the president said.

“I think he does, actually, because he’s smart,” Trump said. “I wasn’t greatly experienced in national security, and I think I’ve done a really great job with it.”

“I would say that Bill is a guy that will be able to figure it out very quickly.,” Trump said. “Again, it’s short term, but he may be very effective for a short period.”

This is breaking news. Please refresh for updates.