Trump derails confirmation process for Jay Clayton as US intelligence chief
Move will allow Trump’s controversial pick, Bill Pulte, to assume role and remain in place for at least several weeks
TL;DR
- Donald Trump has halted the Senate confirmation hearing for Jay Clayton as the US's top intelligence chief.
- This move allows Bill Pulte, Trump's controversial pick, to remain as acting director of national security for at least several weeks.
- The decision has drawn bipartisan criticism due to Pulte's background and is linked to the renewal of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (Fisa).
- Trump stated he wanted Pulte to remain in place until Clayton's replacement as US attorney was finalized.
- Trump also linked Fisa renewal to the inclusion of the Save America Act, a restrictive voting bill.
- Tulsi Gabbard resigned as director of national intelligence, overseeing 18 US spy agencies.
- Both Pulte and Clayton have been described as having thin credentials for the top intelligence job.
- Clayton has previously expressed concerns about election integrity and mail-voting laws.
- Some Democrats and Republicans have praised Clayton's nomination, citing his temperament and commitment to public service.
- Mark Warner suggested that Gabbard or her deputy Aaron Lukas should guide the agency until a permanent chief is confirmed.