President Donald Trump on Wednesday insisted that Democrats were attempting to hold the nation's security "hostage" by stonewalling an extension of key surveillance powers over the appointment of Bill Pulte as acting Director of National Intelligence.

Trump tapped the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) for the role after Tulsi Gabbard announced she would step down over her husband's cancer diagnosis. Trump has charged Pulte with significant staffing reductions and the overhaul of the office. But the unconventional appointment has lawmakers worried, and some Democrats have sought leverage through the upcoming expiration of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, a pivotal intelligence tool.

"Just like they did on Border Funding, the Radical Left Dumocrats are trying to take our National Security hostage because of unrelated issues. They should stop playing politics with the safety of our Great Country," Trump posted on Truth Social. "I have named William Pulte to be Acting Director of National Intelligence, who will take over on June 19th, and have asked him to execute the immediate and needed downsizing of the office, reverting staff to their home agencies. At the same time, I am looking for a permanent ODNI Nominee with experience in National Security."

"FISA 702 is very important to our Military, and keeping the American People safe, especially during the World Cup and America250 Celebrations," Trump went on. "If nothing is done, this important Law will expire this week. I am asking Congress to send me a short-term extension of FISA to provide time for the selection and confirmation of a permanent Head of the Agency. I would like to thank Director Pulte for his time and commitment."

Pulte's appointment appears to have given lawmakers pause on a swift reauthorization of the provision. And some Democrats have insisted that the Pulte nomination signals an intent to pursue political investigations into Trump's opponents. House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin, D-Md., said Tuesday that "[b]y appointing Bill ‘Palantir’ Pulte as acting Director of National Intelligence, President Trump has made clear that he intends to use FISA to investigate his political opponents."

Ben Whedon is the Chief Political Correspondent for Just the News. Follow him on X.