Jay Clayton Sworn In as Director of National Intelligence

Former U.S. attorney Jay Clayton was sworn in as the Director of National Intelligence on August 3, 2026, in Washington, D.C. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent administered the oath of office in the Oval Office. Clayton, who previously chaired the Securities and Exchange Commission, now oversees 18 U.S. intelligence agencies.

Clayton's appointment followed a 51-47 party-line Senate confirmation on July 28. The process was marked by Democratic opposition after Clayton refused to acknowledge that Joe Biden won the 2020 presidential election, though he noted that Biden was certified as president. Senator Ron Wyden criticized the nomination, suggesting the administration prioritized loyalty over national security experience.

Clayton succeeds acting director Bill Pulte, who managed the office since June after Tulsi Gabbard resigned to care for her husband. During his interim tenure, Pulte faced criticism for his lack of security credentials and for implementing sharp staffing cuts, including the layoff of approximately 30% of the office's staff. Pulte also assisted in declassifying documents regarding foreign election interference and China's role in U.S. politics.

Upon taking office, Clayton pledged to ensure the intelligence community is never weaponized for political motives and emphasized a commitment to transparency, accountability, and a more streamlined, mission-focused organization.