The Senate confirmed Jay Clayton as director of national intelligence on July 28, 2026, after Trump's first choice for the post was turned away by lawmakers.
Republicans and Democrats split along party lines on the confirmation vote, The Record reported. The confirmation came after a period of delays.
According to BBC News, senators rejected Trump's original nominee because he lacked relevant experience for the intelligence role. Clayton became the nominee after that earlier pick fell through.
The Record noted that the director of national intelligence position has drawn growing scrutiny through Trump's second term in office.