Amidst ongoing controversy over the US presidential election, President-elect Donald Trump appointed Devin Nunes, the CEO of Truth Social, as the chairman of the President's Intelligence Advisory Board. Nunes' previous experience as the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee and involvement in exposing Russian interference in the 2016 election were cited as qualifications for the role. The President's Intelligence Advisory Board provides independent advice to the President on the effectiveness and future plans of the country's intelligence community. In other news, Trump has also nominated Indian-American Harmeet Dhillon for a high-ranking position in the Department of Justice.
Nunes Appointed to Chair President's Intelligence Advisory Board
Amidst the ongoing controversy over the 2020 US presidential election, President Donald Trump has appointed Devin Nunes, the CEO of Truth Social, as the chairman of the President's Intelligence Advisory Board (PIAB).
Nunes, a former California congressman who served as chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, was instrumental in exposing Russian interference in the 2016 election. His experience in national security and intelligence matters is seen as a key qualification for the role.
The PIAB provides independent advice to the President on the effectiveness and future plans of the country's intelligence community. The board is composed of experts from various fields, including academia, the private sector, and the intelligence community.
Background
Devin Nunes has been a controversial figure throughout his political career. As chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, he faced accusations of partisan bias and protecting President Trump from investigations into possible ties to Russia.
In 2019, Nunes left Congress and joined the board of directors of Trump Media & Technology Group, which launched the Truth Social platform.
Appointment Highlights Trump's Focus on Intelligence
Trump's appointment of Nunes to the PIAB highlights his administration's focus on intelligence matters. The President has repeatedly voiced concerns about the effectiveness of the intelligence community, particularly in the wake of the 2016 election.
The appointment also signals Trump's continued support for his allies, even those who have faced criticism. Nunes has been a staunch defender of Trump, and his appointment to the PIAB is seen as a reward for his loyalty.
FAQs
Who is Devin Nunes? Devin Nunes is a former Republican congressman from California who served as chairman of the House Intelligence Committee. He is currently the CEO of Truth Social, the social media platform founded by Donald Trump.
What is the President's Intelligence Advisory Board? The President's Intelligence Advisory Board is an independent body that provides advice to the President on the effectiveness and future plans of the country's intelligence community.
Why was Nunes appointed to the PIAB? Nunes' experience as the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee and his involvement in exposing Russian interference in the 2016 election were cited as qualifications for the role.
Is Nunes qualified for the role? Nunes' critics argue that his partisan bias and history of protecting Trump from investigations make him unqualified to lead the PIAB. However, supporters point to his experience in national security and intelligence matters.
What does Nunes' appointment say about Trump's priorities? Trump's appointment of Nunes to the PIAB highlights his administration's focus on intelligence matters and his continued support for his allies.
BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule sparked controversy with his statement that party workers' phones and WhatsApp groups are being monitored ahead of local body elections. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut demanded his arrest, alleging that the phones of several Opposition leaders were also tapped. Bawankule clarified his statement, but the Sena leader questioned the involvement of BJP offices and technology networks, calling it a potentially anti-national act.
The Election Commission (EC) has announced the schedule for Special Summary Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in 12 states and Union Territories (UTs) for the year 2025, excluding Assam due to the ongoing National Register of Citizens (NRC) process. While the BJP has welcomed the announcement, the Congress has raised concerns and questioned the decision. The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) has stated that Assam has a separate provision in citizenship laws and the NRC process must be taken into consideration, causing potential delays in the SIR preparations. Despite the physical closure of banks in Ranchi and Patna, financial services will remain available through digital and self-service platforms, so customers are advised to use online banking and plan any in-branch visits accordingly.
In a step towards promoting ethical governance and preventing corruption, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo administered the Integrity Pledge to officers and officials at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar. This marked the beginning of the National Vigilance Awareness Week, a nationwide campaign held annually by the Central Vigilance Commission. The theme for this year is "Vigilance: Our Shared Responsibility", emphasizing the role of collective efforts in upholding integrity, transparency, and accountability in public administration. Throughout the week, various activities will be conducted to sensitize employees and citizens on the importance of honesty and integrity in governance.
In a bid to promote integrity and fight against corruption, the Central Vigilance Commission has declared the observation of 'Vigilance Awareness Week' with the theme 'Our Shared Responsibility'. Health Minister JP Nadda, during the launch, stressed the need for institutionalizing ethical practices and building a culture of vigilance in every level of governance. He also urged for creating a checklist of do's and don'ts in simple terms to prevent unintentional wrongdoings.
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa chaired a meeting to discuss ways to control dust pollution from construction activities in the city. He revealed that an extensive campaign has been launched to monitor and penalize illegal and unregistered construction projects. The Minister also directed officials to expedite field actions and simplify the registration process to ensure timely intervention against polluters.
In a press conference held in New Delhi, the Election Commission has announced phase two of special intensive revision of electoral rolls in 12 states. This comes after political parties raised concerns about the quality of the rolls. While Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin arrived at DMK headquarters to discuss the issue, Assam's electoral roll revision will be announced separately due to the ongoing process of the National Register of Citizens. The EC has assured that there will be no obstacles in implementing the roll clean-up exercise in West Bengal.
President Droupadi Murmu addressed probationers of the Indian Police Service 77 RR (2024 batch) and emphasized the significant role that effective policing and future-ready technology play in promoting growth and attracting investment in any state. She highlighted the transformational impact of technology in the realm of policing and urged young officers to remain ahead in adopting new technologies, including AI, to combat threats to citizens. The President also encouraged ethical decision-making and accountability among young officers occupying positions of power and authority.
CEC Gyanesh Kumar has announced the second phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in 12 states and Union Territories, covering 51 crore voters. He also addressed concerns over the state of West Bengal, clarifying that there is no confrontation between the Election Commission and the state government. Additionally, he reminded that Aadhaar card is not proof of citizenship, but can be used as identity proof in the SIR process.
After Chief Justice Gavai's formal recommendation, Union Government is set to appoint Justice Surya Kant as the next Chief Justice of India. With a distinguished legal career and key institutional roles, Justice Kant is highly regarded for his commitment to electoral transparency and landmark verdicts on various issues including abrogation of Article 370 and free speech. His term is expected to begin on November 24, 2025, and last for approximately 15 months.
On Monday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the fourth edition of the India Maritime Week 2025, where renowned leaders, policymakers, and maritime experts from India and abroad are expected to participate over the next 5 days. In his keynote speech, Shah highlighted India's growing maritime strength and strategic location, citing the government's efforts to increase port handling capacity and develop new mega and deep-draft ports. He also inaugurated state-of-the-art Deep-Sea Fishing Vessels under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojna at Mumbai's Mazagaon Dock. The event, organised by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, is being held in partnership with the Indian Ports Association and will conclude on October 31.