When we pick the person to guard our country’s secrets, we usually look for a long history of service. We want someone who knows how to keep us safe from threats.

WHAT HAPPENED

Donald Trump has picked Bill Pulte to be the Head of U.S. Spies. This job is very big. It means leading all 18 of the country's spy groups.

Pulte is famous for giving away cash to people on social media. He does not have a past in the spy world. This has made people on both sides of the aisle nervous.

Senator Kevin Cramer is a GOP member who usually likes Trump’s ideas. But he called this pick "funny" and "odd." Other experts say putting someone with no training in this role is "dangerous."

WHAT THE EVIDENCE SHOWS

The job leads 18 different spy groups.

• Bill Pulte has never worked in a spy group before.
• Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) publicly questioned the choice.
• Critics say the role is too powerful for a beginner.
• The Senate must vote yes before Pulte can take the job.

THE BIGGER QUESTION

Is this pick about keeping America safe? Or is it about putting a loyal friend in a high place?

We have to ask if the person running our spies should be someone who learns on the job. Most leaders in this role have spent many years in the military or the government.

Right now, there is no proof that giving money away online helps someone run a global spy network.

WHAT HAPPENS NOW

Pulte must now go before the Senate. They will ask him hard questions about what he knows. If they say no, the top spot in the spy world will stay empty.

This matters to regular people because these groups stop attacks. If the leader does not know the work, the groups might not talk to each other well. This could put the whole country at risk.

WHAT WE STILL DON'T KNOW

1. What does Pulte think makes him right for this job?
2. Will enough GOP members vote against him to stop the pick?
3. Who would Trump pick next if the Senate says no?