Washington, D.C. – Tulsi Gabbard, the former U.S. Representative from Hawaii and President Donald Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence (DNI), faced intense questioning during her Senate confirmation hearing on Thursday. Lawmakers pressed Gabbard on her foreign policy positions, past meetings with world leaders, and ability to lead the intelligence community in a politically charged environment.
Foreign Relations and Meeting with Hezbollah Claims
One of the most contentious moments of the hearing came when Senator Susan Collins raised concerns about Gabbard’s 2017 trip to Syria and Lebanon. Reports had surfaced alleging that she met with members of Hezbollah, a U.S.-designated terrorist group.
Gabbard strongly denied the allegations, calling them “absurd accusations.” She acknowledged meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad but insisted that her trip was part of a broader diplomatic effort.
Position on Edward Snowden and National Security
The hearing also touched on whistleblower Edward Snowden, the former NSA contractor who leaked classified documents in 2013. When asked whether she would advocate for a pardon for Snowden, Gabbard distanced herself from the matter.
“As Director of National Intelligence, my role would be to safeguard classified information and protect national security interests,” she stated, emphasizing that she would not pursue any action regarding Snowden.
Foreign Policy and Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine
Gabbard has faced criticism in the past for her views on Syria, Russia, and Islamist extremism. Senator Mark Warner confronted her on her past comments, questioning whether she could be trusted to handle intelligence with the objectivity required for the role.
Gabbard defended herself, stating, “I have no love for Assad, Gaddafi, or any dictator. My focus has always been on ensuring that American foreign policy is aligned with our national security interests.”
Warner also raised concerns about Gabbard’s past statements suggesting that the U.S. provoked Russia into invading Ukraine. The senator argued that such positions could weaken trust between U.S. intelligence agencies and their international allies.
Commitment to Nonpartisan Intelligence
Throughout the hearing, Gabbard maintained that her leadership as DNI would be rooted in integrity, ensuring intelligence reports remain free from political influence. She pointed to her experience in Congress and her military service as qualifications that make her uniquely suited for the role.
“My mission, if confirmed, will be to provide the best intelligence possible to protect the American people and our national security,” she said in her closing statement.
As the confirmation process continues, Gabbard’s nomination remains a divisive topic among lawmakers. While some Republicans have voiced strong support, concerns from Democrats and intelligence officials may pose challenges to her path forward.
