President-elect Donald Trump has selected Tulsi Gabbard as his Director of National Intelligence.
In a statement on Wednesday, he announced, “I believe Tulsi will bring her fearless spirit to our Intelligence Community, upholding our Constitutional Rights, and promoting Peace through Strength. Tulsi will make us all proud!”
TULSI GABBARD, FORMER DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT, JOINS REPUBLICAN PARTY AT TRUMP RALLY
Gabbard, a veteran and active duty Army reservist, previously served as a Democrat from Hawaii in the House from 2013 to 2021. She later switched to the Republican Party and supported Trump in his recent presidential campaign. Gabbard is now a co-chair of the Trump transition team.
Tulsi Gabbard, a former Hawaii House Democrat, is considered for director of national intelligence, confirmed by multiple sources to Fox News Digital (Getty Images)
In September, Gabbard expressed interest in joining a Trump administration, emphasizing the need to end the influence of the military industrial complex, prevent World War III, and avert nuclear war.
While she initially sought the defense secretary job, Trump reportedly promised that position to former Fox News host Pete Hegseth, another Army veteran.
Gabbard has criticized both Democrats and Republicans, speaking out against U.S. involvement in the Middle East and condemning Trump’s actions, including the killing of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani.
She notably met with Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad in 2017 during the Syrian civil war, advocating against arming Syrian rebel groups in an effort to bring about an end to the conflict.
Earlier this year, Gabbard was reportedly placed on a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) watchlist for terrorists known as “Quiet Skies.”
Trump embraces Gabbard during a campaign rally at Greensboro Coliseum on Oct. 22, 2024. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)
Gabbard expressed concerns about government surveillance and its impact on her life, especially due to additional airport security measures she faced.
As a Congresswoman, Gabbard co-sponsored legislation to ban the first-time use of nuclear weapons and consistently criticized politicians who promote war and heightened tensions.
Gabbard, who is also a Fox News contributor, was unavailable for comment.
Trump recently appointed John Ratcliffe, his former director of national intelligence, to lead the CIA.
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The director of national intelligence advises the president, National Security Council, and Homeland Security Council on national security matters, and any nominee must be confirmed by the Senate or appointed in an acting capacity.
