pic-social media
source-CNN news
In a surprising move, President-elect Donald Trump announced on Wednesday his choice of Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic congresswoman turned Trump supporter, to be the next Director of National Intelligence (DNI). Gabbard, an Army National Guard veteran and former Democratic presidential candidate, left the Democratic Party in 2022 and endorsed Trump shortly thereafter. Her nomination is anticipated to prompt intense scrutiny during the Senate confirmation process.
Gabbard’s political transformation — from a Democratic critic of U.S. interventionist policy to a staunch Trump supporter — reflects a unique alignment with Trump on foreign policy issues. Both have promoted a philosophy that respects the strength of the U.S. military while opposing certain overseas interventions. Like Trump, Gabbard has also been seen as taking stances that some find sympathetic to leaders viewed as adversaries of the United States, including the presidents of Syria and Russia.
Gabbard’s influence as DNI could vary, as the role’s authority fluctuates depending on the administration. The DNI oversees 18 intelligence agencies, though the CIA remains a dominant force within the Intelligence Community. Notably, Trump has also appointed John Ratcliffe, former DNI under his previous administration, to lead the CIA.
Trump praised Gabbard’s “fearless spirit” in his announcement, noting her commitment to “championing our Constitutional Rights” and securing “Peace through Strength.” Gabbard had previously assisted Trump with debate preparations, helping him address Vice President Kamala Harris, with whom Gabbard sparred during the 2020 Democratic primary debates.
Gabbard has long advocated for an anti-interventionist approach, often clashing with traditional U.S. foreign policy. Her 2017 meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and her remarks about Russia’s security concerns regarding NATO expansion illustrate her more unconventional views.
Steve Bannon, a prominent Trump ally, endorsed her nomination, saying, “We now have one of the strongest America First proponents nominated to take charge of an out-of-control and destructive intelligence community.”
If confirmed, Gabbard’s tenure as DNI could signal a shift toward a more isolationist U.S. foreign policy, particularly in the face of ongoing conflicts and intelligence challenges globally.
