Republicans are acknowledging that President Donald Trump may need to replace Bill Pulte, his nominee to lead the intelligence community, in order to secure Democratic support for extending the government's foreign surveillance powers. The GOP-controlled chambers require Democratic votes to prevent a lapse in Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which Democrats are reluctant to support unless Pulte is removed from his dual role as acting director of national intelligence.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) stated, "We need Democrat votes" to pass the legislation. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) expressed concerns about Pulte's qualifications for the national security position and noted that Democrats would not support the extension until Pulte is withdrawn. A recent bipartisan extension was rejected by all Democrats except for Senator John Fetterman (D-PA).
The administration is urging Congress to authorize an extension before the Friday deadline, warning of potential consequences if a lapse occurs. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) suggested that reversing Pulte’s appointment is not a necessary condition for passing the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth emphasized the importance of Section 702 for national security.
Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Tom Cotton (R-AR) has not defended Pulte’s qualifications, while Senator James Lankford (R-OK) described him as "not qualified" on Fox News. Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) has communicated with Republicans regarding next steps, referring to Pulte’s appointment as a "live hand grenade." House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) stated he would not support extending FISA with Pulte still in his position, calling for his removal as a necessary first step.