Washington: The U.S. Senate has advanced Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination as Director of National Intelligence (DNI) following a vote along party lines, paving the way for a final confirmation. According to Politico, the procedural vote, known as cloture, was passed on Monday, setting the stage for her appointment to the country’s top intelligence post.
Gabbard, a former Army Reserve lieutenant colonel, Democratic congresswoman, and 2020 presidential candidate, was nominated for the role by U.S. President Donald Trump after shifting to the Republican Party last year. Her confirmation is anticipated to be finalized with the support of 52 Senate Republicans, while 46 Democrats opposed her appointment. Two senators were absent from the vote.
Confirmation Process and Political Divide
The Senate Intelligence Committee had earlier cleared Gabbard’s nomination in a party-line vote following a contentious hearing in late January. Senate Majority Leader John Thune emphasized her commitment to intelligence integrity, stating on the Senate floor, “The intelligence community must return to its primary objective of gathering intelligence and providing objective analysis of that data. If Tulsi Gabbard is confirmed as DNI, she is dedicated to making sure of that, and I think she has the leadership skills and expertise to do it.” (NBC News)
Cloture, a procedural tool often used for controversial Cabinet nominees, was employed to limit debate and allow for up to 30 hours of discussion before the final vote. The Senate’s decision is expected by Tuesday at midnight unless unanimous consent allows for an earlier vote.
Gabbard’s Controversial Stance on Intelligence and Foreign Policy
Throughout her political career, Gabbard has drawn criticism for her views on U.S. intelligence agencies. She has previously referred to intelligence officials under her potential leadership as part of the “deep state.” Additionally, she has echoed Kremlin narratives regarding the origins of the Russia-Ukraine war and questioned U.S. intelligence assessments on Syria’s use of chemical weapons.
Her nomination has been met with strong opposition from Democratic lawmakers, who cite her past positions as a cause for concern. However, her Republican backers argue that she will bring much-needed reform and independence to the intelligence community.
Upcoming Nominations
Following the Senate’s procedural approval of Gabbard’s nomination, Senate Majority Leader Thune announced that a procedural vote on President Trump’s nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services will be held next.
Gabbard’s confirmation vote, set for Tuesday night, will determine whether she officially assumes the role as the nation’s top intelligence officer.
