President Donald Trump has nominated Jay Clayton, who previously served as chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission during Trump's first term, to be the next Director of National Intelligence. The nomination was announced on June 11, 2026, and fills the seat vacated by Tulsi Gabbard, who had held the position earlier in the administration.

Clayton, a Wall Street lawyer by background, led the SEC from 2017 to 2020, overseeing the agency during a period of significant market activity and regulatory debate. His nomination to lead the intelligence community represents a notable shift in portfolio, moving from financial regulation to oversight of the nation's sprawling intelligence apparatus.

Bill Pulte was also referenced in connection with the announcement, with reports indicating personnel changes across multiple senior positions as part of the same shake-up. Senate Republicans have signaled they intend to move swiftly to confirm Clayton, with procedural steps already underway on Capitol Hill.

The DNI position coordinates the activities of 18 intelligence agencies and serves as the principal intelligence adviser to the president. Clayton's lack of a traditional national security background has drawn scrutiny from some observers, while supporters point to his management experience and prior service in the Trump administration as qualifications for the role.