Washington, D.C. – Former Congresswoman and U.S. Army Reserve officer Tulsi Gabbard appeared before the Senate Intelligence Committee on Thursday for her confirmation hearing as the nominee for Director of National Intelligence (DNI). In her opening statement, Gabbard vowed to restore trust in the intelligence community, combat political weaponization of intelligence, and ensure unbiased, apolitical analysis for national security decision-making.
Gabbard, nominated by President Donald Trump for the position, began her remarks by offering condolences for the victims of a recent tragic accident. She then addressed the committee, acknowledging the deep skepticism surrounding U.S. intelligence agencies due to past failures and politicization.
“For too long, faulty, inadequate, or weaponized intelligence has led to costly failures and the undermining of our national security and God-given freedoms enshrined in the Constitution,” she stated.
Gabbard pointed to major intelligence failures, including the invasion of Iraq based on false intelligence, the rise of ISIS, and instances of intelligence agencies allegedly working against political figures, including Trump. She criticized the FBI’s surveillance activities and the CIA’s reported spying on Congress, calling for accountability and reform.
A Pledge for Objectivity and Reform
If confirmed, Gabbard pledged to lead with integrity, ensuring that intelligence is collected and analyzed without political bias.
“I will bring leadership to the intelligence community with a laser-like focus on our essential mission: ensuring the safety, security, and freedom of the American people,” she said.
Gabbard, a veteran of three combat deployments, emphasized her military and congressional experience in handling classified intelligence and engaging with world leaders. She vowed to work closely with policymakers, enhance information sharing, and address intelligence failures, citing recent oversights such as the October 7th Hamas terrorist attack and intelligence gaps regarding global security threats.
Addressing Political Attacks and Religious Bigotry
Gabbard also took aim at critics who have questioned her loyalty and affiliations, dismissing accusations of being aligned with various world leaders or ideologies.
“Those who oppose my nomination imply that I am loyal to something or someone other than God, my own conscience, and the Constitution,” she said, rejecting what she called “smears” similar to those leveled against President Trump.
She further condemned religious bigotry, specifically addressing concerns that Hinduism has been misrepresented by some of her opponents.
“Religious bigotry must be thoroughly condemned by all of us, no matter the religion,” Gabbard stated, reaffirming her commitment to upholding constitutional freedoms.
Next Steps in the Confirmation Process
Gabbard’s nomination has sparked strong reactions from both supporters and opponents. While some senators praised her commitment to transparency and reform, others raised concerns about her past foreign policy positions and perceived alignment with Trump’s worldview.
The Senate Intelligence Committee will now deliberate before advancing her nomination to a full Senate vote. If confirmed, Gabbard will oversee the nation’s intelligence agencies, a role that has become increasingly scrutinized amid global threats and domestic political tensions.