(LibertySociety.com) – President-elect Donald Trump has appointed former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (R-HI) as the next Director of National Intelligence (DNI), signaling a dramatic shift in the leadership of America’s intelligence community. Announced via a press release from the Trump-Vance Transition team on Wednesday, the move highlights Gabbard’s military background and her history of bipartisan appeal.
“I am pleased to announce that former Congresswoman, Lieutenant Colonel Tulsi Gabbard, will serve as the Director of National Intelligence,” Trump declared. He praised Gabbard’s commitment to the nation and her ability to bridge political divides. “For over two decades, Tulsi has fought for our Country and the Freedoms of all Americans. As a former Candidate for the Democrat Presidential Nomination, she has broad support in both Parties – She is now a proud Republican!”
Gabbard’s extensive military experience, including deployments to the Middle East as a Lieutenant Colonel in the National Guard, was a key factor in Trump’s decision. He emphasized her capability to reform the intelligence community while upholding the constitutional rights of citizens. “Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to this important role,” Trump said, adding that her leadership would make Americans “proud.”
Known for her independent streak and willingness to challenge political orthodoxy, Gabbard first garnered national attention during her 2020 Democratic presidential campaign. Her debate performance, particularly her pointed criticism of then-Sen. Kamala Harris’s prosecutorial record, made headlines. In 2022, she officially left the Democratic Party, citing its ideological shift, and later joined the Republican Party in October 2024, calling it the “party of the people.”
Gabbard endorsed Trump earlier this year, lauding his efforts during his first term to avoid new military conflicts and de-escalate global tensions. Her appointment to oversee the nation’s 18 intelligence agencies, including the CIA and NSA, represents Trump’s commitment to accountability and reform in the intelligence community.
As the new DNI, Gabbard’s focus is expected to include modernizing intelligence operations, ensuring transparency, and safeguarding civil liberties. Her bipartisan reputation and military expertise could bring a fresh perspective to the role, setting the tone for a transformative approach to national security under Trump’s administration.
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