The Senate Select Committee on Intelligence has scheduled a confirmation hearing for Jay Clayton, President Donald Trump’s nominee for director of national intelligence (DNI), on July 15. The hearing was rescheduled after Trump canceled the original date of June 17, citing disagreements with Democrats over unrelated legislative priorities.
Clayton, currently serving as U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, was nominated by Trump on June 11. The DNI position oversees 18 intelligence agencies and serves as the president’s top intelligence adviser. Trump appointed Bill Pulte as acting DNI on June 2 following the resignation of former DNI Tulsi Gabbard, who cited personal reasons for her departure.
Democrats’ Response to Clayton’s Nomination
Several Democrats have expressed support for Clayton, including Rep. Jim Himes (D-Conn.), who praised his intelligence and public service record. Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.), the ranking member of the Intelligence Committee, also spoke positively about Clayton. However, Democrats previously opposed the appointment of Pulte, citing his lack of experience in intelligence or national security.
Trump’s Stance on the Hearing Delay
Trump initially delayed Clayton’s hearing, demanding that the Senate confirm James McDonald, a partner at Sullivan & Cromwell and a former federal prosecutor, to replace Clayton in New York. The White House has not yet sent McDonald’s nomination to the Senate. Trump also cited frustration over the expiration of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) and the lack of support for the SAVE America Act, a voter ID bill he supports.
Background on Clayton’s Career
Clayton previously served as chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from 2017 to 2020 and led the law firm Sullivan & Cromwell before his current role as U.S. attorney.