United States President Donald Trump has appointed housing finance chief Bill Pulte as the acting director of national intelligence, despite his lack of national security experience, while allowing him to retain his existing roles overseeing federal housing and mortgage policy.

Pulte, who currently heads the Federal Housing Finance Agency and supervises mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, replaces former intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard, who resigned in late May after a tenure marked by reported disagreements with Trump over foreign policy issues.

In a statement posted on his Truth Social account on Tuesday, Trump described Pulte as having “deep experience managing the most sensitive matters in America, the safety and soundness of the Markets,” adding that he would continue in his housing-related responsibilities.

Bill Pulte, 38, is widely regarded as a close Trump ally and has been described by US media as a political “attack dog” due to his outspoken criticism of the president’s opponents.

He has previously accused Democratic Senator Adam Schiff and New York Attorney General Letitia James of misconduct relating to mortgage documentation, allegations both have denied.

Reports also linked Pulte to an internal complaint at Fannie Mae, which claimed he improperly accessed mortgage records of political figures, including Letitia James.

A federal grand jury indictment involving James was later dismissed without prejudice by a federal judge.

Pulte has also been associated with a mortgage fraud case targeting Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, which remains pending before the US Supreme Court.

His appointment has sparked further controversy due to his lack of an intelligence background and his politically charged public statements.

According to reports, he has taken strong positions within housing finance policy, including advocating for a 50-year mortgage plan, a proposal that has drawn criticism within Trump’s political base.

Media reports also suggest Pulte has had internal clashes within political and business circles, including disagreements with members of Trump’s inner circle.

Despite the controversies, Trump maintained confidence in his ability to handle sensitive national matters while continuing his work in housing finance.