Acting Director of National Intelligence Bill Pulte has begun a controversial shake-up of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, including layoffs that critics say are being carried out without proper review.

Appointed by President Trump with no prior intelligence experience, Pulte has reportedly focused cuts on staff at the National Counterterrorism Center, raising concerns from lawmakers and former intelligence officials.

Democrats and some Republicans warn that the rapid firings could weaken national security and increase the risk of missing terrorist threats.

Supporters argue the changes are part of an effort to downsize and reform the intelligence bureaucracy, The Hill has reported.

The moves have sparked bipartisan criticism and new legislative efforts to limit the use of acting officials in top intelligence roles.