Trump is pushing ahead with his decision to appoint Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence, despite fierce criticism from lawmakers. Pulte has been tasked with downsizing the intelligence office, according to Trump's announcement Wednesday.
Democrats have made clear they will not support a short-term extension of Section 702 surveillance powers—set to expire soon—unless Trump rescinds the Pulte appointment. The three-week extension was proposed as a temporary measure while Congress negotiates longer-term reauthorization of the surveillance program.