Tulsi Gabbard Faces Scrutiny Over Past Foreign Policy Stances as DNI Nominee
President-elect Donald Trump's pick for director of national intelligence draws bipartisan concerns over her views on Syria, Russia, and U.S. adversaries.
- Tulsi Gabbard, a former congresswoman and Army Reserve lieutenant colonel, has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as director of national intelligence.
- Her past statements on Syria and Russia, including skepticism over Assad's use of chemical weapons and calls for Ukraine's neutrality, have raised concerns among both Democrats and Republicans.
- Critics highlight her 2017 meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, which some view as legitimizing a regime accused of war crimes, including recent insurgent clashes in Aleppo.
- Supporters argue that questioning Gabbard's loyalty is unwarranted, citing her military service and lack of evidence connecting her to foreign powers.
- Gabbard's confirmation hearings are expected to focus on clarifying her evolving foreign policy views and addressing bipartisan concerns about her suitability for the role.