The choice ignited immediate criticism: observers flagged that Pulte lacks known military or intelligence experience and called the move unqualified and a "disaster" online. Senator Mark Warner, vice chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, warned the pick suggests a preference for an official willing to use government authority for political ends, citing past actions by Pulte that targeted officials and supported prosecutions.
The announcement follows Tulsi Gabbard's May 22 resignation from the DNI role to care for her husband, Abraham, who was diagnosed with an extremely rare form of bone cancer. Gabbard said she must step away from public service to support him.