Tulsi Gabbard Confirmed as Director of National Intelligence in Senate Vote

In a 52-46 vote, the U.S. Senate confirmed former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard as the new Director of National Intelligence (DNI) on Thursday. The decision marks a significant moment in the ongoing reshaping of the nation’s intelligence leadership.

Gabbard, who served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2013 to 2021, will be sworn in at the White House later today. Her confirmation comes after a week of discussion on Capitol Hill, where her nomination received mixed reactions but ultimately secured enough support to move forward.

A Closely Watched Vote

The confirmation saw nearly unanimous support from Republican senators, with one notable exception: Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky voted against the nomination. All 47 Democratic senators also voted no.

Despite the division, Republican Sens. Lisa Murkowski and Bill Cassidy played key roles in ensuring Gabbard’s path to confirmation remained steady. Earlier in the week, both publicly announced their intention to support her, reducing speculation about potential last-minute opposition or delays.

“I will vote to confirm Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence,” Sen. Murkowski said in a statement. “While I continue to have concerns about certain positions she has previously taken, I appreciate her commitment to balance national security with civil liberties.”

Sen. Cassidy echoed similar sentiments, stating, “President Trump chose Tulsi Gabbard to lead on matters of foreign intelligence. I trust his judgment and will support her nomination.”

From Congress to Intelligence Leadership

Gabbard, a military veteran with deployment experience in the Middle East, represented Hawaii’s 2nd congressional district for four terms. Known for her independent thinking and willingness to work across party lines, she has been an advocate for national security reform and veterans’ issues.

After leaving Congress in early 2021, Gabbard distanced herself from partisan politics. In 2022, she formally left the Democratic Party, citing disagreements over foreign policy and civil liberties. She later announced her alignment with the Republican Party and endorsed Donald Trump in his 2024 presidential campaign.

Her background in military service, foreign affairs, and counterterrorism has been a focal point of her supporters, who argue she brings firsthand knowledge and a reform-minded perspective to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

Focus on Oversight and Reform

In her new role, Gabbard is expected to oversee coordination between the country’s numerous intelligence agencies, including the CIA, NSA, and FBI, under the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI).

Supporters believe she will bring a fresh approach to intelligence oversight, emphasizing transparency, privacy protection, and accountability within the intelligence community. “As she brings independent thinking and necessary oversight to her new role, I am counting on her to ensure the safety and civil liberties of American citizens remain rigorously protected,” Murkowski added.

While critics raised concerns over some of Gabbard’s past foreign policy stances, no significant procedural roadblocks emerged during the confirmation process.

A Busy Week for Senate Confirmations

Gabbard’s confirmation comes amid a series of high-profile votes on presidential appointments. Earlier this week, the Senate took steps to advance the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Secretary of Health and Human Services.

Kennedy’s confirmation has been the subject of debate, particularly over his controversial views on public health and vaccination. A procedural vote passed 52-47 to move his nomination to a full Senate vote, expected within days.

Sen. Cassidy, initially hesitant, announced his support for Kennedy following meetings with Vice President JD Vance and administration officials. “I’ve had very intense conversations with Bobby and the White House over the weekend and even this morning,” Cassidy wrote in a statement. “With serious commitments made on health policy and transparency, I will vote yes.”

Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo praised Kennedy’s qualifications, saying, “Mr. Kennedy, if confirmed, will have the opportunity to deliver much-needed change to our nation’s health care system.”

Looking Ahead

With Gabbard set to be sworn in and Kennedy’s confirmation likely to follow, the administration is moving swiftly to shape its Cabinet and leadership team. The Senate is also preparing to review several other nominees in the coming days.

As Director of National Intelligence, Gabbard will be tasked with maintaining the delicate balance between national security interests and individual rights—an increasingly complex challenge in the digital age. Her supporters remain optimistic that her military and legislative experience will serve her well in navigating the demands of this critical role.