In a highly publicized move, former President Donald Trump has appointed Tulsi Gabbard Former congresswoman and 2020 presidential candidate the key national security position, naming her the next Director of National Intelligence. Now, Gabbard–who has built a reputation as a strong critic of US foreign interventions–faces the challenge of overseeing the nation’s intelligence agencies.
Gabbard, a former U.S. Army Reserve officer and congresswoman from Hawaii has been outspoken on foreign policy-particularly when it comes to opposing military intervention in the Middle East. That voice can offer a new perspective within the DNI, the agency responsible for coordinating the work of the nation’s 18 intelligence agencies, including the CIA, NSA, and FBI.
In a statement, Trump praised Gabbard’s strong leadership and how deeply informed she was about national security issues: “Tulsi brings a unique experience and clear vision on how to secure America’s future that will be very consequential as we continue facing more complex global challenges,” he said.
Gabbard’s appointment may mean that U.S. intelligence agencies’ focus shifts further from international military involvement to more domestic security issues. Critics cite her many provocative positions, especially her past affiliations with unsavory political figures.
As the DNI, Gabbard will ensure that the U.S. intelligence operations serve effectively and that timely, pertinent intelligence comes to the President and senior policy-makers. Her appointment will stir Washington, with some hailing her while others criticize her new appointment to one of the highest-ranking posts in the country.
