Treasury Secretary Downplays Tension with New Intelligence Chief

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent addressed a past confrontation with Bill Pulte, who has recently been appointed as the acting Director of National Intelligence by President Donald Trump. This discussion arose during a Senate hearing, where Bessent was questioned about reports claiming he threatened Pulte at a dinner.

During the hearing, North Carolina Republican Senator Thom Tillis asked Bessent if he had indeed threatened to hit Pulte. Bessent humorously clarified that he said he would “kick his ass.” This exchange reignited interest in their past clash, which happened just as Pulte was chosen for a significant national security role.

Many teams squabble in the locker room and go out in the field, Bessent remarked, comparing his relationship with Pulte to a sports team dynamic.

Despite the tension, Bessent stated he congratulated Pulte on his new position. He acknowledged that disagreements among cabinet members are not new, citing historical duels involving past Treasury secretaries like Alexander Hamilton.

Bill Pulte, who is also the Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency and chairman of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, will continue in these roles while assuming his new intelligence position. The appointment came after the former Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, stepped down to support her husband during his fight with bone cancer.

Some Democratic lawmakers have criticized Pulte’s appointment, questioning his qualifications for such a crucial security role. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries voiced their concerns over Pulte’s lack of experience in national security, military, or law enforcement fields.

Schumer described the appointment as a potentially hasty decision based on loyalty rather than national security considerations. Jeffries questioned what enables Pulte to assume a national security position, suggesting his willingness to fulfill Trump’s demands plays a role.

Fox News Digital sought comments from the Treasury Department and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) concerning the situation.