Trump Orders Declassification of Information Before Air Force One Flight

On July 1, 2026, before embarking on the inaugural flight of the new Air Force One, President Donald Trump made a straightforward declaration: he instructed Acting Director of National Intelligence Bill Pruitt to “declassify just about everything.”

Speaking next to a Qatar-donated jet, President Trump explained that he had given Pruitt the authority to unveil information deemed significant for the American public.

“While the president was there, I said, ‘You can declassify whatever you want,'” Trump stated. “I think the building will be declassified.”

However, the President has received critique regarding his choice of Pruitt, who leads the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). Critics point to Pruitt’s perceived “lack of national security experience.”

Earlier in June, Trump had nominated Jay Clayton, the Southern District of New York attorney, to assume the permanent director of national intelligence role. Yet, Clayton’s Senate confirmation hearing was unexpectedly canceled, with the President indicating it would be rescheduled following the appointment of his replacement.

On Wednesday, Trump mentioned that Clayton’s hearing would take place in two weeks. Currently, Pruitt holds the position of acting DNI, but once Clayton is confirmed, he will take over as the permanent director.

Moreover, Trump emphasized that Pruitt’s term is meant to be temporary, bridging the gap left by Tulsi Gabbard’s resignation. Pruitt will retain his role as political discussions around Capitol oversight and voting laws continue.