The FBI on Friday fired five intelligence analysts connected to a disputed 2023 memo that warned of potential threats from Catholic "violent extremists," according to their attorney. The terminations included four intelligence analysts and one supervisory analyst.

The firings occurred under FBI Director Kash Patel, a Trump loyalist who has been implementing personnel changes at the bureau. The 2023 memo had drawn criticism for its characterization of certain Catholic groups as potential security threats. The FBI declined to comment on the terminations.

Separately, President Trump has appointed Bill Pulte as Acting Director of National Intelligence, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from congressional Democrats. Rep. Jim Himes, the ranking Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, characterized the appointment as "probably the worst most dangerous" among Trump's cabinet selections.

Speaking on CBS's "Face the Nation," Himes said the timing of Pulte's appointment effectively takes FISA Section 702 reauthorization "off the table." Critics have questioned Pulte's qualifications for the intelligence role, citing his lack of experience in intelligence or national security matters.

The personnel changes at both the FBI and the broader intelligence community reflect the Trump administration's efforts to reshape key national security agencies early in the president's second term.