In a surprising yet strategic move, President-elect Donald Trump has announced that Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democrat Representative who switched allegiance to the Republican Party, will lead the National Intelligence. Gabbard, who played a crucial role in Trump's debate preparation against Vice President Kamala Harris, is set to bring her unique perspective to the intelligence community.
Trump's Vision for Intelligence Services
Trump has long expressed his desire to overhaul the country's intelligence services, which he views with suspicion and distrust. The appointment of Gabbard, known for her foreign policy skepticism, aligns with his vision of reforming these agencies. "For over two decades, Tulsi has fought for our country and the freedoms of all Americans. As a former candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination, she has broad support in both parties, she is now a proud Republican!" Trump stated while announcing her selection.
Who is Tulsi Gabbard?
Born in American Samoa, Tulsi Gabbard, 43, is a four-time Congresswoman from Hawaii and a former Democratic presidential candidate in 2020. She is a lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserve and has served in Iraq. Despite lacking direct experience in intelligence agencies, Gabbard has been active in politics since she was 21, starting as a member of the Hawaii House of Representatives from the 42nd district.
Gabbard is married to Abraham Williams, a cinematographer, and her father, Mike Gabbard, is a Hawaii State Senator who switched from Republicans to Democrats.
First Hindu in US House of Representatives
In 2012, Gabbard made history by becoming the first Hindu to win a seat in the US House of Representatives, defeating Republican Kawika Crowley by a significant margin. She also became the first American Samoan to secure a Congress seat. During her first swearing-in ceremony, Gabbard took the oath of office on the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizing her belief in embracing diversity.
Presidential Aspirations and Party Transition
Gabbard did not seek reelection to the 117th Congress in 2020, instead aiming for the Democratic presidential nomination. Her campaign focused on American military interventions and progressive agendas, though she later withdrew and supported President Joe Biden. In 2022, Gabbard left the Democratic Party, criticizing it as being controlled by "an elitist cabal of warmongers" and "woke" ideologues.
She joined the Republicans in 2022 and quickly gained prominence in Trump's circle. Gabbard endorsed Trump for the 2024 presidential campaign and campaigned alongside Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Following Trump's victory, he included both Gabbard and Kennedy in his transition team.
Tulsi Gabbard's appointment to lead the National Intelligence marks a significant shift in US intelligence leadership. Her diverse background and political journey reflect a broader strategy to reform and reshape the intelligence community under Trump's administration.
