Walter 'Jay' Clayton

Trump nominated Jay Clayton, former SEC chairman and current U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, as director of national intelligence, prompting a Senate confirmation hearing amid Democratic concerns over Trump’s temporary pick, Bill Pulte. Democrats criticized Pulte’s lack of intelligence credentials and political ties, while Senate leaders emphasized Clayton’s prosecutorial experience as a potential reassurance.

President Trump nominated Walter 'Jay' Clayton as director of national intelligence, facing Senate confirmation after replacing interim pick Bill Pulte. Democrats criticize Pulte's lack of intelligence experience and partisanship, while Senate Majority Leader John Thune supports Clayton's nomination. A confirmation hearing is set to address concerns and expedite the process.