Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton participated in a swearing-in ceremony in the Oval Office on Tuesday, a day after he officially assumed the post. Clayton replaces Housing Director Bill Pulte, who has served in the role in an acting capacity since former Director of National Security Tulsi Gabbard left the post on June 19 as her husband battles an “extremely rare” form of cancer. Clayton served as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York before assuming the post of intelligence chief. Conversely, Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) said that Clayton is a “highly qualified nominee with a deep experience combatting a wide range of national security threats.” “As U.S. attorney, Mr. Clayton has worked hand in glove with our intelligence agencies and counterterrorism personnel to lock up criminals who threaten our national security,” he said.