President-elect Donald Trump has nominated former congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence.
President-elect Donald Trump announced Wednesday that Tulsi Gabbard, former Democratic congresswoman and vocal Trump supporter, has been selected as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI). This position places Gabbard at the helm of 18 U.S. intelligence agencies, marking her as one of the highest-ranking members of Trump’s upcoming administration.
Trump appoints Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence.
— TFTC (@TFTC21) November 13, 2024
Gabbard says she's ready "to defend the safety, security and freedom of the American people." pic.twitter.com/xQoQBStfLH
Gabbard, a lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserve and former representative from Hawaii, left the Democratic Party last year, aligning herself with the Republican Party amid her growing criticisms of Democratic leadership. Her selection as DNI reflects Trump's continued emphasis on appointing allies who share his skepticism of traditional U.S. foreign policy. Gabbard has openly criticized U.S. intervention in foreign conflicts, describing such actions as "counterproductive" and a drain on American resources. Trump stated that Gabbard’s “fearless spirit” and dedication to “peace through strength” made her an ideal candidate for the intelligence role.
In a statement posted on social media, Gabbard expressed gratitude, saying she is "honored to defend the safety, security, and freedom of the American people." She added, "I look forward to getting to work," signaling her commitment to her new role.
Gabbard’s past stances on foreign policy have attracted both support and controversy. In 2017, she met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, a move criticized due to Assad's human rights record. Gabbard defended the decision, arguing that diplomacy requires engagement with all parties. Her relationship with the Democratic establishment also soured during the 2020 presidential race when Hillary Clinton suggested that Gabbard was a “Kremlin favorite,” a claim Gabbard fervently denied.
Her tenure as DNI would involve briefing Trump regularly on global security matters, as well as overseeing intelligence operations. This role also positions her as one of the key figures in shaping U.S. responses to ongoing global issues.
The nomination signals Trump’s intention to reshape the intelligence community’s approach to foreign policy, particularly regarding reduced military involvement abroad. Gabbard’s confirmation process in the Senate may be challenging, with likely questions surrounding her past statements and foreign policy positions. However, her background in military service and her extensive political experience may support her case.
