President Trump has decided on a nominee for the position of Director of National Intelligence (DNI). On Thursday, Trump announced that Jay Clayton would be tapped for an important leadership role in his administration.
“I am pleased to announce the Nomination of very Highly Respected Jay Clayton, former Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the former Head of Sullivan & Cromwell, one of the most prominent and successful Law Firms anywhere in the World, and the current United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, to be the next Director of National Intelligence and, importantly, to serve in my Cabinet,” President Trump said.
“Few people anywhere in the Legal Community are respected at the level of Jay. I encourage the United States Senate to confirm Jay as soon as possible,” he added.
The position of DNI was vacated when Tulsi Gabbard stepped down from the role last month due to her husband’s ongoing battle with bone cancer. Following Gabbard’s resignation, President Trump appointed William Pulte to serve as acting DNI.
The intelligence office oversees 18 federal agencies. Trump has reportedly encouraged Pulte to use his time as acting DNI to make cuts within the intelligence office to promote efficiency. On June 5th, Trump told reporters he would like to see downsizing within the organization, which Pulte may be positioned to accomplish since he will be in the role temporarily.
Although the appointment of Pulte as acting DNI received support from several GOP lawmakers, Trump also received pushback from Republican Senators who indicated they would not support his nomination if he was put forward to permanently fill the role. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, told reporters that although the Senate did not play a role in confirming acting officials, he did not believe Pulte was qualified to serve as DNI.
GOP lawmakers have praised Trump’s choice of Clayton to serve as DNI. Rep. Elisa Stefanik, R-N.Y., offered her support of Clayton’s nomination and pushed for his confirmation. “Jay Clayton is an excellent nomination by President Trump to serve as Director of National Intelligence,” Stefanik said. “Great choice! Jay should be confirmed swiftly during this important time for our national security.”
