Trump has tapped Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte for the top job, at least temporarily, despite Pulte's lack of experience in intelligence work or a security clearance prior to being picked.
Sen. Mitch McConnell singled out that issue in a statement that did not refer directly to Pulte by name, but cautioned that "extensive national security experience" is vital to the role. The senator, who is set to retire in January, signaled he's not likely to cast a yes vote for Pulte — echoing his rejection of the now-outgoing DNI Tulsi Gabbard.
Rep. Thomas Massie, who is also set to exit following his primary loss, had the same complaint when addressing Capitol Hill reporters.
"I don't think (Pulte) has any experience whatsoever that translates into that position, so I'm not sure why he was put there other than maybe he's just considered to be very loyal to the president," he said.
The White House called Pulte a "battle-tested reformer with deep experience safeguarding highly sensitive information and overhauling massive government institutions."
Thursday, the president appeared to soften his position on the choice following Republican backlash, saying Pulte would not serve as DNI permanently.