Tulsi Gabbard, former Democratic Representative from Hawaii, has been confirmed as the new Director of National Intelligence in a narrow Senate vote, marking a significant shift in U.S. intelligence leadership.
Quick Takes
- Senate confirms Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence in a 52-48 vote
- Gabbard’s confirmation highlights Trump’s influence over the GOP
- Concerns raised about Gabbard’s past stances on Russia, Syria, and Edward Snowden
- Gabbard reversed some controversial positions during confirmation hearings
- Republicans largely support Gabbard, while Democrats express skepticism
Senate Confirmation and Party Lines
In a closely watched vote, the Senate has confirmed Tulsi Gabbard as the new Director of National Intelligence. The final tally stood at 52-48, largely along party lines, underscoring the political divide surrounding her nomination. This appointment marks a significant turn in Gabbard’s political career, having transitioned from a Democratic presidential candidate to a key figure in a Republican administration.
The confirmation process highlighted the strong influence of President Trump over the Republican Party. Only Senator Mitch McConnell broke ranks with his party to vote against Gabbard’s nomination, while the majority of GOP senators rallied behind Trump’s choice. This display of party unity comes despite initial concerns about Gabbard’s qualifications and past positions on key issues.
BREAKING: Tulsi Gabbard confirmed as Director of National Intelligence. pic.twitter.com/vVP5hjsOY0
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Addressing Concerns and Shifting Positions
Throughout the confirmation process, Gabbard faced scrutiny over her past actions and statements. Critics pointed to her controversial meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, her comments about Russia, and her stance on government surveillance and Edward Snowden. These issues were at the forefront of the Senate’s deliberations.
In response to these concerns, Gabbard made notable shifts in her positions during the confirmation hearings. She reversed her stance on pardoning Snowden and softened her criticism of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act’s Section 702. These changes appeared to assuage some senators’ doubts, including Senator Susan Collins, who ultimately supported Gabbard’s nomination.
“The Office of the Director of National Intelligence … has become far larger than it was designed to be, and Ms. Gabbard shares my vision of returning the agency to its intended size” said Senator Susan Collins, explaining her support for Gabbard’s confirmation.
Republican Support and Democratic Opposition
Republican senators largely rallied behind Gabbard, citing her commitment to refocus on the core missions of the intelligence office and her vision for streamlining the agency. Senator Lisa Murkowski expressed her support, albeit with reservations, stating, “While I continue to have concerns about certain positions she has previously taken, I appreciate her commitment to rein in the outsized scope of the agency.” Senator Tom Cotton who chairs the Senate Intelligence Committee was crucial in persuading uncertain senators to support Gabbard.
Democrats, however, remained staunchly opposed to Gabbard’s confirmation. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer voiced strong criticism, questioning Gabbard’s stance on national security and her views on adversaries like Putin and Assad. The opposition highlighted the deep partisan divide over Gabbard’s appointment.
Implications for U.S. Intelligence Leadership
As the new Director of National Intelligence, Gabbard will oversee 18 U.S. intelligence agencies and serve as a key advisor to the president on intelligence matters. Her appointment represents a significant departure from traditional intelligence leadership, reflecting the ongoing efforts to reshape the federal government at a time where Americans are highly skeptical of the intelligence agencies. Gabbard’s ability and openness to transform the intelligence agencies to align with President Trump’s vision will be a key component of determining her success.
Gabbard has promised to focus on the core missions of the intelligence office and streamline its operations. This approach, combined with her unique background as a military veteran and former Democratic congresswoman who switched to the Republican Party, sets the stage for a potentially transformative period in U.S. intelligence operations.
“Ms. Gabbard, I submit that, if confirmed, the measure of your success will largely depend on whether you can return the ODNI to its original size, scope, and mission,” Cotton said.
As Gabbard begins her tenure, she faces the challenge of balancing her promised focus on core intelligence missions with the evolving landscape of global threats. Her confirmation reflects the ongoing efforts to reshape federal agencies and the influence of Trump’s “Make America Great Again” base within the Republican Party. The coming months will reveal how Gabbard navigates these complex political and security landscapes in her new role as America’s top intelligence official.
