WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — Former Democratic representative from Hawaii and recent GOP convert Tulsi Gabbard is gaining traction on Capitol Hill as she seeks Senate confirmation to be the next Director of National Intelligence in President-elect Donald Trump’s second term. Concerns by some lawmakers about Gabbard’s previous relationship with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and controversial remarks about Russia have apparently been allayed by her reported well-received meetings with Republican senators.
According to Trump’s transition team, Gabbard’s meetings with the key figures of the Republicans, who will hold the Senate majority in January, have generally been positive. “After a week of successful meetings with senators on Capitol Hill, Tulsi Gabbard has received an outpouring of support for her confirmation,” Trump’s team said over the weekend.
Gabbard’s nomination has also been greeted with skepticism by some Democrats, particularly in her remarks after Russia invaded Ukraine. In 2022, Gabbard was quick to blame NATO and not Russian President Vladimir Putin for the conflict, echoing Kremlin narratives. She further raised eyebrows by claiming Ukraine housed U.S.-funded biolabs, making it a legitimate target for Russian aggression. Moreover, Gabbard’s 2017 trip to Syria, where she met with al-Assad during the height of the Syrian civil war, has resurfaced as a point of contention.
One of the most strident critics has been Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, questioning whether she can be entrusted with the nation’s highest intelligence post. Her closeness to Russia and earlier statements have raised the issue of whether she might prove incapable of providing neutral and unbiased intelligence briefings.
However, Gabbard has received strong support from leading Republicans. Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson praised her saying, “Any noise from the Uniparty makes her the best choice. I am looking forward to voting in favor of her confirmation.” Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, who Trump has nominated as Secretary of State, commended Gabbard following a recent meeting, saying she “is a great fit for the DNI role.”
Her qualifications have also been underscored by a background of two decades serving in the U.S. Army National Guard and being a congresswoman. In addition, the Trump camp says she prioritizes national security and, “she puts country before party.
Another high-profile supporter is Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, who said momentum is building for Gabbard’s confirmation. “There’s a lot of support for her among veterans and military senators. The opposition will try to stop her, but they’re up against growing support,” Paul said.
While pushback from Democrats is expected, Gabbard’s confirmation is likely to proceed smoothly. Historically, most cabinet nominees have passed through the Senate’s advice and consent process with little difficulty.
