EXCLUSIVE: Dozens of top former intelligence officials urge Senate to confirm Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence
Dozens of top former intelligence officials are urging the Senate to confirm President Donald Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard. In a letter sent to Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Tom Cotton and Vice Chairman Mark Warner, the officials argued that Gabbard’s service will “begin undoing the gross politicization that has come to characterize intelligence bureaucracies.”
The letter, obtained exclusively by Fox News Digital, was signed by former White House National Security Advisor Robert O’Brien, former Acting Director of National Intelligence Ric Grenell, and more than 40 other former intelligence officials. They praised Gabbard’s extensive experience, including her 20 years of military service, multiple combat deployments, and eight years as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives.
Gabbard’s experience “more than qualifies her for this important position,” the officials wrote, adding that she is an “outspoken champion for America’s warriors and for our cherished constitutional freedoms.” They noted that Gabbard had “first-hand” knowledge of how intelligence can be used to support America’s military and political leaders, and that she had spoken up when intelligence was abused.
The officials also contrasted Gabbard with other former senior intelligence officials who had politicized their profession, citing her commitment to truth, integrity, and following the facts. They concluded that Gabbard has the integrity and moral courage to restore objectivity and professionalism to the nation’s intelligence agencies.
The letter comes as Gabbard has faced scrutiny over her intelligence experience, with some senators questioning her qualifications for the position. However, allies of Gabbard have defended her record, arguing that someone with “fresh eyes” and “without bias” is needed to lead the intelligence community. Gabbard’s confirmation hearing is scheduled for Thursday morning.