Trump will nominate ex-Democrat Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence

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Donald Trump plans to put forward former Democratic congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard as his choice for the next leader of the US intelligence community. Gabbard has previously endorsed various conspiracy theories regarding the United States' role in Ukraine.

The president-elect revealed that he has chosen the former Hawaii legislator to serve as his Director of National Intelligence. In this role, Gabbard will oversee an office established after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, which is responsible for coordinating and integrating intelligence gathered globally.

Trump praised Gabbard, an Army National Guard Lieutenant Colonel, for her dedication to serving the nation and defending the freedoms of all Americans for more than twenty years.

In a statement, Trump expressed his confidence that Tulsi will bring the boldness that has characterized her remarkable career to our Intelligence Community. He believes she will advocate for our Constitutional Rights and promote a strong commitment to peace. "Tulsi will make us all proud!" he added.

He also stated that the former Democratic presidential candidate from 2020 has substantial backing from members of both political parties. He pointed out that Gabbard, who departed from the Democratic Party after losing the nomination to Joe Biden, is now a committed Republican.

Gabbard will require approval for the position and is expected to undergo intense questioning from senators regarding her comments following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

In a contentious interview, Gabbard argued that the US partner was not deserving of protection since it "isn’t truly a democracy." She also suggested that US-sponsored "biolabs"—which have no evidence of existence—could potentially lead to the emergence of "dangerous pathogens."

This unfounded assertion mirrored Russian disinformation suggesting that the United States was financing laboratories in Ukraine to produce unlawful biological weapons intended for use against Russia.

Back then, Republican Senator Mitt Romney from Utah reacted by accusing Gabbard of sharing "treasonous falsehoods."

In a message on X, Gabbard expressed her gratitude to Trump for the chance to be part of his cabinet and to help safeguard the safety, security, and freedoms of the American citizens.

"I'm excited to start working," she said.

In 2019, Gabbard was one of the few Democrats in the House who chose not to support the impeachment of Trump for allegations of power misuse and hindering Congress.