Tulsi Gabbard, the former Democratic congresswoman and vocal critic of the US intelligence establishment, has officially been confirmed as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI). In a 52-48 Senate vote on February 12, Gabbard secured her position with only one Republican, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, opposing her nomination. This appointment, championed by President Donald Trump and bolstered by influential figures such as Elon Musk, has ignited fierce debate in Washington, reflecting deeper divisions within the political and intelligence spheres.

Gabbard’s confirmation followed weeks of intense scrutiny and pushback from both Democrats and establishment Republicans. Having served as a congresswoman from Hawaii from 2013 to 2021 and running for president in 2020, she developed a reputation as an outspoken critic of US foreign policy, particularly regarding military interventions and intelligence operations.

Mitch McConnell, the highest-ranking Republican to oppose her nomination, did not mince words in his criticism, declaring her “unfit” for such a crucial position. “The Senate’s role in advice and consent is not a formality, but a duty-one we must take seriously. I believe Tulsi Gabbard has demonstrated poor judgment in areas vital to our national security,” McConnell stated after the vote.

Despite this opposition, Trump’s allies in the Senate rallied behind Gabbard, citing her military background, independence from political elites, and willingness to challenge entrenched government narratives. Many conservatives view her as a reformer who will break through what they perceive as the intelligence community’s deep-rooted political biases.

Gabbard’s selection as DNI........

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