WASHINGTON: The Senate confirmed Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence, marking a significant win for President Trump.
The vote was 52-48, largely along party lines, with Sen. Mitch McConnell joining Democrats in opposition to Gabbard’s confirmation.
Republican senators raised concerns over her stance on Ukraine, past meetings with Assad, and shifting surveillance policy positions.
McConnell criticized her confirmation, stating she has “a history of alarming lapses in judgment” regarding national security.
Despite opposition, key Republicans like Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, and Todd Young supported her nomination in the final vote.
Divided Support
Murkowski acknowledged concerns about Gabbard’s past positions but praised her independence and oversight capabilities.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune defended Gabbard, highlighting her military service and focus on intelligence community efficiency.
He emphasized her commitment to “right-sizing” the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and reducing inefficiencies.
Thune also noted her recent support for FISA Section 702, a reversal from her earlier opposition to surveillance tools.
Gabbard’s confirmation marks Trump’s 14th successful Cabinet nominee since his inauguration on January 20.
Contentious Nomination
Gabbard’s nomination sparked intense debate due to her past meetings with foreign leaders and views on intelligence oversight.
During her confirmation hearing, she dodged questions on whether Edward Snowden’s actions constituted treason.
Her reluctance raised concerns among Senate Intelligence Committee members, putting her nomination in jeopardy.
Though Committee Chair Tom Cotton backed her, some Republican senators expressed doubts about her suitability.
Sen. Josh Hawley warned on Fox News that her nomination faced strong Republican opposition at one point.
Reassuring Republicans
Gabbard secured committee approval after closed-door meetings where she reassured skeptical senators.
Her shifting stance on FISA Section 702, a crucial surveillance authority, became a focal point of her nomination process.
In 2020, Gabbard introduced legislation to repeal the Patriot Act and Section 702, worrying intelligence officials.
However, she later expressed support for the law, arguing that reforms had addressed her previous concerns.
Sen. Mark Warner questioned her about these reforms, pressing her for details she struggled to provide.
Surveillance Concerns
Republican Sen. John Cornyn challenged Gabbard’s understanding of Section 702 during her hearing.
Some senators believed she confused it with Title I of FISA, which was used to surveil Carter Page.
Despite initial skepticism, follow-up meetings helped her gain Republican votes, ensuring her confirmation.
Sen. James Lankford specifically cited her responses on surveillance policy as the reason for his support.
Gabbard’s confirmation makes her one of the most surveillance-critical intelligence chiefs since 9/11.
Intelligence Shakeup
Her previous criticisms of the national security establishment raise questions about potential intelligence policy shifts.
Gabbard has spoken against using laws like the Espionage Act to suppress dissent.
Her leadership could impact how intelligence agencies collect and utilize surveillance data.
Despite concerns, her confirmation reflects Trump’s willingness to appoint officials who challenge traditional intelligence practices.
As she assumes her new role, Gabbard faces the challenge of balancing oversight with national security needs.
