US President-elect Donald Trump announced the appointment of former Democrat Tulsi Gabbard as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) in his upcoming administration. Trump praised Gabbard, calling her a “proud Republican” with the potential to bring her “fearless spirit” to the intelligence community.
Trump highlighted Gabbard’s experience as a former Democratic presidential candidate, emphasizing her broad support from both major political parties. “As a former Candidate for the Democrat Presidential Nomination, she has broad support in both Parties – She is now a proud Republican!” Trump stated in a release.
The president-elect expressed confidence that Gabbard’s “fearless spirit,” which has been central to her career, would benefit the intelligence community. “I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community, championing our Constitutional Rights, and securing Peace through Strength. Tulsi will make us all proud!” Trump said.
While Tulsi Gabbard lacks specific experience in the intelligence sector, she has a rich background as a US military veteran. She served for over 20 years in the Army National Guard and has been deployed to Iraq and Kuwait. Gabbard also represented Hawaii’s second district in Congress from 2013 to 2021 and served for two years on the House Homeland Security Committee.
Despite her first name often leading to assumptions about her background, Gabbard has no ties to India. Her mother converted to Hinduism and gave her children Hindu names, which is why Gabbard identifies as a Hindu. She was the first Hindu member of the US Congress and was sworn into office holding the Bhagavad Gita.
In 2020, Gabbard ran for the Democratic presidential nomination, challenging Kamala Harris. She criticized her own party for not opposing wars and ultimately dropped out of the race. In 2022, Gabbard left the Democratic Party, citing its dominance by an “elitist cabal of warmongers” and “woke” ideologues. She joined the Republican Party and publicly endorsed Trump, helping him prepare for his debate with Kamala Harris.
Tulsi Gabbard is married to cinematographer Abraham Williams. Her father, Mike Gabbard, a state senator, was originally a Republican before switching parties to become a Democrat.
