Tulsi Gabbard, the former U.S. Representative, has secured a crucial vote from the Senate Intelligence Committee for her nomination to become the next Director of National Intelligence (DNI). The vote, which passed narrowly with a 9-8 margin, came after significant support from key Senate members.
Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Chair of the Intelligence Committee, expressed confidence in Gabbard’s nomination, stating that the committee’s favorable vote moves her one step closer to full Senate confirmation, where they hope to continue their efforts in keeping America safe.
The vote followed an endorsement from Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.), a critical swing vote, who publicly backed Gabbard on social media. He praised her engagement on national security issues and emphasized her commitment to supporting intelligence professionals and delivering unbiased information. Young, a former Marine Corps intelligence officer, committed to working with Gabbard to safeguard national security.
Gabbard’s nomination, made by former President Donald Trump, adds another chapter to her diverse career, which includes being an Army Reserve lieutenant colonel, a Democratic congresswoman, and a 2020 presidential candidate. Last year, she switched to the Republican Party and has occasionally referred to the intelligence community as part of the “deep state.”
Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) also showed support for Gabbard, helping to solidify her path to Senate confirmation. Both Young and Collins were considered key figures in the vote, making their backing crucial to Gabbard’s continued progress.