Trump taps prosecutor Jay Clayton as next director of national intelligence

President Trump announced Thursday his intention to nominate Jay Clayton, the current U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, to serve as the next director of national intelligence. The president made the announcement via Truth Social.

Trump described Clayton as "very Highly Respected," noting his past roles as former Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission and former Head of Sullivan & Cromwell, a prominent law firm. He emphasized Clayton's standing within the legal community and encouraged the Senate to confirm his nomination swiftly.

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I am pleased to announce the Nomination of very Highly Respected Jay Clayton, former Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the former Head of Sullivan & Cromwell, one of the most prominent and successful Law Firms anywhere in the World, and the current United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, to be the next Director of National Intelligence and, importantly, to serve in my Cabinet.

The nomination comes as the administration faces challenges in filling the intelligence director role. The current pick for acting director, Bill Pulte, has drawn significant criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans, hindering efforts to extend a critical spy power set to expire soon. Democrats have stated they will not agree to the extension while Pulte is slated to take the acting role on June 19.

Trump expressed confidence in Clayton's qualifications, stating, "Few people anywhere in the Legal Community are respected at the level of Jay." He concluded by urging the Senate's prompt confirmation.

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Few people anywhere in the Legal Community are respected at the level of Jay. I encourage the United States Senate to confirm Jay as soon as possible. Thank you for your attention to this matter!