Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination as Director of National Intelligence has advanced through the Senate Intelligence Committee.
As a former Democratic congresswoman, Gabbard has been a significant ally of President Trump since officially announcing her support of his campaign in October 2024.
Gabbard’s nomination will move to a vote on the Senate floor before she is confirmed. However, the advancement of her nomination through the committee revealed the support of important GOP members including Sen. Susan Collins, R-Ma., and Sen. Todd Young, R- In.
In a statement released on Monday, Collins specifically addressed her support of Gabbard for the role.
Collins stated her belief that the Office of the Director of National Intelligence had become far larger than it was designed to be,” and expressed her belief that Gabbard shared her “vision of returning the agency to its intended size.”
Collins also addressed previous concerns regarding Gabbard’s nomination.
“Ms. Gabbard addressed my concerns regarding her views on Edward Snowden. I look forward to working with Ms. Gabbard to strengthen our national security,” Collins said.
Senator Young likewise addressed prior concerns, including Gabbard’s perceived opinions on Edward Snowden. In an X post, Young shared a letter from Gabbard in which she promised accountability for any Intelligence Community employee for making “unauthorized disclosure of any intelligence program.”
Gabbard’s nomination passed through the committee with a narrow vote of 9-8, split along party lines with Republican members supporting and Democratic members opposing her advancement to a full Senate vote.