President-elect Donald Trump announced on Wednesday, November 13th, that he had selected Tulsi Gabbard, the former Democratic congresswoman from Hawaii, to serve as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) in his upcoming administration. Gabbard, who left the Democratic Party in 2022 and officially joined the Republican Party last month, brings a wealth of experience to the role, both in military service and public office.
In a statement, Trump praised Gabbard’s dedication to the country, noting that she has “fought for our Country and the Freedoms of all Americans” throughout her career. Trump further expressed confidence in Gabbard’s ability to lead the intelligence community. “I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community, championing our Constitutional Rights, and securing Peace through Strength,” he said. “Tulsi will make us all proud!”
Gabbard, a veteran with military experience, has served in multiple deployments to the Middle East and Africa. She first served in elected office in the Hawaii State House at age 21. After the 9/11 attacks, she enlisted in the Army National Guard and deployed to Iraq with the 29th Brigade Combat Team in 2004. She later served as a platoon leader in the Middle East. Gabbard ran for Congress at age 31 and served for eight years on the Armed Services, Homeland Security, and Foreign Affairs Committees. She ran for president in 2020 as a Democrat, emphasizing national security and foreign policy.
After President-Elect Trump made the announcement, Gabbard posted on X (formerly Twitter) saying, “Thank you [President Trump] for the opportunity to serve as a member of your cabinet to defend the safety, security, and freedom of the American people. I look forward to getting to work.”
Gabbard’s endorsement of Trump in August 2024 and her subsequent appointment to his transition team indicated her alignment with his administration’s goals. Expressing her commitment to national security, Gabbard stated, “I feel I can make the most impact in these areas of national security and foreign policy, and work to bring about the changes that President Trump talks about.”
If confirmed, she will oversee the U.S. intelligence community, advising the president on national security matters and managing the National Intelligence Program.
