Tulsi Gabbard’s Bid to Become Trump’s Director of National Intelligence on Shaky Ground
Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination to become Director of National Intelligence is facing opposition from Republican lawmakers due to her past statements that have been perceived as too warm toward Vladimir Putin and Bashar al-Assad. Gabbard has also questioned some intelligence-gathering tools, leading to concerns among Republican senators.
While some members of the Senate Intelligence Committee have expressed positive support for Gabbard’s nomination, others have raised private concerns and are urging her to answer questions about her views. “There are very serious concerns by enough members to put her nomination in jeopardy,” said one GOP senator.
Despite the lack of internal opposition from the White House, senior aides and allies are concerned about Gabbard’s nomination. President Trump himself remains supportive, but has told Gabbard she needs to prove herself.
Gabbard’s nomination has not yet drawn public opposition, and she has not yet undergone a confirmation hearing. However, she has met with several Republican senators, including Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins, who have expressed interest in her qualifications and plans for the position. The Senate Intelligence Committee, led by Senator Tom Cotton, is expected to schedule a confirmation hearing once Gabbard’s paperwork is complete, including her FBI background check, which is still outstanding.