President Trump is expected to ask New York hedge fund manager Stephen Feinberg to lead a close review of U.S. intelligence agencies, which the president has accused of leaking sensitive information to members of the press.
Feinberg, a member of the president’s economic advisory council, has remained close to several senior White House aides and Trump himself. If tapped for the role, he will join them inside the West Wing for the duration of the review.
The New York Times was first to report the possible hiring.
News that Trump is considering a review of the intelligence community came after he intensified his attacks on the community this week amid the scandal involving ousted White House national security adviser Mike Flynn. The administration believes intelligence officials who oppose Trump have illegally shared sensitive information with reporters to sabotage the president and his staff.
“The spotlight has finally been put on the low-life leakers! They will be caught!” Trump tweeted Thursday morning.
Feinberg had previously been floated as a contender for CIA director until the president nominated Rep. Mike Pompeo, R-Kan., for the top intelligence position.
Current and former intelligence officials told the Times that Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence, former Sen. Dan Coats, was displeased to learn that the president is considering an outside review of intelligence agencies.
