Midday Briefing — June 2, 2026

Acting DNI Appointment. President Trump has named Bill Pulte, the housing finance director, as the acting director of national intelligence, following Gabbard. This appointment has drawn attention, with Senator Thune stating, "We don’t need a weaponized" director of national intelligence. Pulte, described as a housing regulator turned MAGA enforcer, will take on the intelligence chief role.

Congressional Inquiries. Congress has requested that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell testify before a House panel regarding the league's embrace of streaming services and broadcast deals. Separately, Senator Mullin is facing a Senate grilling on the DHS budget, immigration crackdown, and World Cup worries. Mullin stated he can still "initiate" a plan to pull CBP from airports but sees "no need" in Newark.

White House Briefing and Medicaid. Oz is leading a White House briefing after new Medicaid requirements were unveiled. This briefing follows the announcement of the new requirements, which will likely impact federal healthcare policy.

Trump-Netanyahu Tensions. Tensions have flared between Trump and Netanyahu over Israel's strikes on Lebanon. Reports indicate Trump berated Netanyahu regarding a Lebanon incursion. Axelrod commented on a reported Trump outburst at Netanyahu, stating, "His analysis is not wrong.