Donald Trump Selects Former Democrat Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump announced Wednesday that he has chosen former Democratic congresswoman and current independent Tulsi Gabbard as the next Director of National Intelligence (DNI). Gabbard, who departed the Democratic Party in 2022 and has since gained popularity among conservatives, will replace Avril Haines as the nation’s top intelligence official when Trump begins his second term in January.

A veteran who served in Iraq and now holds the rank of lieutenant colonel, Gabbard has been a vocal critic of the Biden administration and an advocate for reform within the intelligence community. Known for her strong stances on foreign policy and national security, she has drawn bipartisan attention and was even floated as a potential running mate for Trump.

As Director of National Intelligence, Gabbard, 43, will oversee all 18 agencies within the U.S. intelligence community, including the CIA and NSA, and will be responsible for advising the president on matters of national security. Her appointment marks a significant shift for the intelligence community, given her transition from Democrat to independent and her outspoken criticism of establishment policies.

In a statement, Trump praised Gabbard’s service and experience, noting her commitment to prioritizing national security and her independent approach to leadership.