Tulsi Gabbard Faces Tough Confirmation Battle for Intelligence Chief Role

Senators from both parties raise concerns over Gabbard’s past positions and actions ahead of her Jan. 30 hearing.

Former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard’s confirmation as director of national intelligence depends heavily on her performance during the Jan. 30 Senate hearing.
Concerns from GOP senators include her 2017 meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, comments perceived as sympathetic to Russia, and her advocacy for pardoning Edward Snowden.
President Donald Trump remains supportive of Gabbard, with sources emphasizing her loyalty as a key factor in his backing.
Some senators, including members of the Intelligence Committee, have withheld judgment until the hearing, while others privately express skepticism about her chances of confirmation.
Gabbard’s nomination has drawn criticism from both sides, with some framing opposition as politically motivated or rooted in her departure from the Democratic Party.