Acting Director of National Intelligence Bill Pulte is reportedly preparing a significant workforce reduction at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), a move that could eliminate hundreds of positions and reshape one of the federal government's key intelligence oversight agencies.
According to reports, Pulte began reviewing staffing levels immediately upon arriving at ODNI headquarters and requested detailed information on the agency's workforce.
The initiative follows public comments from President Donald Trump, who has questioned the size and necessity of the agency and advocated for reforms aimed at reducing bureaucracy within federal intelligence operations.
Supporters of the proposed changes argue that streamlining the organization could improve efficiency and reduce duplication of responsibilities across government agencies.
The reported plans have generated concern among some lawmakers and intelligence officials, who warn that rapid staffing reductions could disrupt critical coordination functions.
The transition also comes as outgoing Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard prepares to leave office.
Reports indicate that agency leadership was given limited advance notice regarding the timing and scope of the personnel review, contributing to uncertainty within the organization.
Critics of the plan have raised concerns about the potential impact on national security and the perception that staffing decisions could be influenced by political considerations.
Congressional oversight committees are expected to closely monitor developments as the administration moves forward with its proposed restructuring of the intelligence apparatus.
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— Reuters (@Reuters) June 19, 2026
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