President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that Federal Housing Finance Agency Director William Pulte will serve as Acting Director of National Intelligence following the resignation of Tulsi Gabbard, who is leaving her post to care for her husband after a devastating cancer diagnosis.
The move comes at a difficult personal moment for Gabbard, who revealed last month that her husband, Abraham Williams, had been diagnosed with an extremely rare form of bone cancer. The former Hawaii congresswoman and Army Reserve lieutenant colonel said her family must come first as they face the challenging road ahead.
In her resignation letter to President Trump, Gabbard wrote:
“Unfortunately, I must submit my resignation, effective June 30, 2026. My husband, Abraham, has recently been diagnosed with an extremely rare form of bone cancer. At this time, I must step away from public service to be by his side and fully support him through this battle.”
Gabbard’s departure marks the end of a historic chapter in her political career. Once a Democrat congresswoman from Hawaii, she became one of the most prominent voices to break with her former party before ultimately joining the Trump administration as the nation’s top intelligence official. (RELATED: Tulsi Gabbard Resigning As National Intelligence Director)
Throughout her tenure, Gabbard frequently emphasized service, accountability, and putting the interests of the American people above politics. Now, she says her focus must shift entirely to supporting her husband and family.
President Trump praised Gabbard for her service and quickly moved to ensure continuity in one of the federal government’s most important positions.
In announcing Pulte’s appointment, Trump highlighted his leadership experience overseeing America’s housing finance system.
“William has deep experience managing the most sensitive matters in America, the safety and soundness of the Markets, and over 10 Trillion Dollars at Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac,” Trump wrote in a statement. “During this period, he will remain Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, and Chairman of Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac.”
Pulte is best known as a businessman, investor, and housing finance regulator. He currently serves as Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, which oversees mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Before entering government, he built a career in business and philanthropy and became widely known for charitable initiatives that helped families and individuals facing financial hardship.
While Pulte does not come from a traditional intelligence background, Trump has repeatedly praised his management skills and ability to oversee large, complex organizations. Supporters argue that those leadership qualities will be valuable as he temporarily guides the intelligence community through a period of transition.
The appointment also reflects Trump’s tendency to place trusted allies in key positions, particularly individuals he believes will challenge the status quo and bring a fresh perspective to government institutions.
For many Americans, however, the bigger story remains Gabbard’s decision to step away from public service in order to care for a loved one facing a serious illness.
Her resignation serves as a reminder that even those serving in the highest levels of government are not immune from life’s most difficult trials. As Gabbard and her husband begin this new battle, supporters across the political spectrum have offered prayers and well wishes for his recovery.
Pulte is expected to assume his duties as Acting Director of National Intelligence following Gabbard’s departure later this month.
