Trump Pauses Jay Clayton Intelligence Chief Confirmation
President Trump has paused the confirmation of Jay Clayton as US intelligence chief. Clayton is a former head of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Trump's pick for acting intelligence chief is Bill Pulte. Pulte will stay in the role for at least several weeks.
Trump said he was frustrated over a lapsed surveillance tool. He also cited a voter ID bill that lacked enough support.
The lapsed tool is Section 702 which is a key surveillance law. Trump blamed Democrats for blocking intelligence laws over Pulte's acting role.
Democrats objected to Pulte's appointment and this reportedly caused Section 702 to lapse. Trump had nominated Clayton partly to break that deadlock and restore the surveillance tool.
Klear Note — Section 702 lets US spy agencies collect foreign communications. It expired and needs Congress to renew it. Intelligence chief confirmation fights can delay national security laws.
Key Terms 5
- Director of National Intelligence The top US official overseeing all intelligence agencies
- Confirmation A Senate vote to approve a president's chosen official
- Section 702 A US law allowing surveillance of foreign targets for security
- Securities and Exchange Commission US agency that regulates financial markets and companies
- Acting role A temporary position held until a permanent person is approved