U.S. President Donald Trump appointed Bill Palte, head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, as the acting Director of National Intelligence, replacing Tali Gabard who stepped down, amid international conflict and tensions. Palte has no prior experience in intelligence or national security.
On 3 June 2026 GMT+7, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the appointment of Bill Palte, head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), as acting Director of National Intelligence (DNI).
This appointment elevates 38-year-old Palte, a key political ally of Trump, to oversee the U.S.'s 18 intelligence agencies during a time of multiple wars and security tensions worldwide, despite his lack of previous experience in intelligence or national security.
Reports state Palte is replacing Tali Gabard, who is stepping down. Trump indicated Palte will continue serving as FHFA Director and chairman of the boards of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac concurrently.
Previously, Palte used his role at FHFA to push investigations into several individuals Trump viewed as political adversaries, accusing them of involvement in housing loan fraud. However, no criminal charges have resulted from these investigations to date.
This appointment occurs as the U.S. faces numerous international security challenges, including tensions in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine, and strategic competition with China, putting the DNI role under close scrutiny from political and security experts.
Source: CNN