President-elect Donald Trump has tapped former Democratic congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard to serve as director of national intelligence, a choice that has drawn widespread criticism due to Gabbard’s lack of intelligence experience and controversial views on foreign policy, according to NBC News.
Gabbard, who served in the Hawaii Army National Guard and deployed to Iraq, would lead the U.S. intelligence community, overseeing 18 agencies and a budget of $70 billion if confirmed by the Senate.
Gabbard’s Complex Foreign Policy Views
Throughout her career, Gabbard has criticized U.S. foreign policy, calling it imperialistic and interventionist. Despite her support for Trump in recent years, she previously condemned his Middle East strategy, labeling his approach as reckless. Gabbard also garnered criticism for her stance on NATO and her meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in 2017, sparking bipartisan condemnation.
Accusations of Amplifying Russian Propaganda
In recent years, Gabbard has faced accusations of echoing Russian disinformation. In 2022, she claimed the U.S. was funding bio labs in Ukraine, a statement that mirrored Russian misinformation efforts. Her comments drew sharp rebuke from both Republicans and Democrats, with figures like Sen. Mitt Romney accusing her of spreading “actual Russian propaganda.”
Clashes with U.S. Intelligence Community Expected
Gabbard’s views often conflict with those of the U.S. intelligence community, especially concerning Russia’s role in disinformation. Her skepticism over reports from U.S. intelligence agencies, including her doubts about Syria’s responsibility in chemical attacks, sets her apart from mainstream U.S. foreign policy.
Progressive Background and Break from the Democratic Party
A former progressive star, Gabbard served four terms in Congress representing Hawaii, where she took stances that often diverged from her party. Her 2020 presidential campaign faced criticism for her previous anti-LGBTQ+ views and her controversial stance on Middle East policy. She later renounced the Democratic Party, accusing it of promoting “wokeness” and divisive identity politics.
Stances on Assange and Snowden Reflect Anti-Establishment Lean
Gabbard has advocated leniency for Julian Assange and Edward Snowden, both of whom leaked classified U.S. information. She also expressed skepticism about U.S. actions abroad, frequently criticizing U.S. involvement in regime-change wars and calling for a foreign policy rooted in “peace and diplomacy.”
Senate Confirmation Uncertain Amid Lawmaker Opposition
Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-Va.), a former CIA officer, voiced her concern, calling Gabbard’s nomination “alarming” and accusing her of promoting conspiracy theories. With Republicans holding a slim Senate majority, Gabbard’s nomination faces a challenging confirmation process, with critics from both parties questioning her qualifications for the role.
