November 13, 2024 – Mar-a-Lago, FL — President Donald J. Trump announced today the appointment of former Congresswoman and U.S. Army Reserve Lieutenant Colonel Tulsi Gabbard as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI). This appointment is a notable addition to Trump’s cabinet as Gabbard, once a Democratic candidate for the 2020 presidential nomination, recently joined the Republican Party, citing Trump’s leadership and vision as the catalysts for her shift in political allegiance.
“Tulsi has dedicated over two decades to fighting for our country and the freedoms of all Americans,” Trump stated in his announcement, adding that her unique combination of experience, independence, and bipartisan support makes her a strong asset to his administration. “I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our intelligence community,” Trump said, expressing confidence in her commitment to champion constitutional rights and secure peace through strength.
A Distinguished Career in Service and Politics
Tulsi Gabbard’s career spans military service, congressional leadership, and public advocacy. She has deployed three times to war zones in the Middle East and Africa, where she has served as a medical specialist and platoon leader. Now a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve, Gabbard commands the 1/354 Regiment in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and leads her nonprofit organization, “We Must Protect.”
At age 21, Gabbard began her career in public service in the Hawaii State House of Representatives. Following the events of 9/11, she enlisted in the Army National Guard and, in 2004, volunteered for deployment to Iraq, pausing her political career to serve with the 29th Brigade Combat Team.
Upon her return, Gabbard worked in Washington as a legislative aide to the late Senator Daniel Akaka, a champion of veterans’ issues. Later, she volunteered for a second deployment, serving as a platoon leader. Inspired by the experiences of her fellow service members, she ran for Congress in 2012, ultimately representing Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District for eight years. During her tenure, Gabbard served on the Armed Services, Homeland Security, and Foreign Affairs Committees.
Gabbard decided not to seek reelection in 2020, focusing on a presidential bid as a Democrat. In October 2022, she announced her departure from the Democratic Party, citing a commitment to country over party, and adopted an independent stance. She formally endorsed Trump in August 2024 and subsequently joined his transition team as co-chair. Her book, For Love of Country: Leave the Democrat Party Behind, became a bestseller shortly after its release in April 2024.
A Vision for the Future of U.S. Intelligence
In her new role as DNI, Gabbard is expected to lead the U.S. intelligence community with a focus on transparency, a commitment to constitutional freedoms, and a mission to foster stability in a complex global landscape. Her appointment signals a bipartisan bridge in Trump’s administration, bringing fresh perspectives and a deep understanding of both military and foreign policy matters.
With the Senate confirmation process soon to begin, Gabbard’s extensive experience in public service, advocacy for veterans, and defense of American values positions her as a formidable leader for U.S. intelligence under President Trump’s second term.
