During her Senate Intelligence Committee confirmation hearing on January 30, 2025, Director of National Intelligence nominee Tulsi Gabbard addressed allegations questioning her loyalty to the United States. Gabbard, a former Democratic congresswoman from Hawaii, firmly rejected assertions that she serves as a puppet for President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, or other foreign leaders.
In her opening statement, Gabbard stated, “Those who oppose my nomination imply that I am loyal to something or someone other than God, my own conscience, and the Constitution of the United States.” She highlighted the absurdity of being accused of simultaneously serving multiple leaders, including Trump, Putin, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, and others. Gabbard emphasized her refusal to be anyone’s puppet, asserting her independence and dedication to the nation.
Throughout the hearing, Gabbard faced intense questioning regarding her past foreign policy positions, particularly her 2017 meeting with Assad. She defended the meeting as an effort to promote peace and prevent further conflict, clarifying that she does not defend or apologize for Assad’s actions. Gabbard reiterated her commitment to preventing unnecessary wars and emphasized that engaging with adversaries is sometimes necessary for national security.
Gabbard also addressed concerns about intelligence sharing and the failures leading up to the September 11 attacks. She acknowledged that “stovepiping” of information—where intelligence is not adequately shared between agencies—was a significant issue and emphasized the need for reform within the intelligence community to prevent such failures in the future.
Despite the rigorous questioning, Gabbard maintained her stance against interventionist foreign policies and criticized the politicization of intelligence. She argued that faulty or weaponized intelligence has led to costly failures and undermined national security, citing the invasion of Iraq as an example. Gabbard called for an end to such practices and a restoration of trust in the intelligence community.
Gabbard’s nomination has been met with both support and opposition. Critics have expressed concerns over her past interactions with foreign leaders and her views on U.S. foreign policy, while supporters commend her military service and commitment to non-interventionism. The Senate Intelligence Committee will continue to deliberate on her confirmation as the Director of National Intelligence.
