President-elect Donald Trump has named Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic representative and veteran of the Hawaii National Guard, as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) for his upcoming administration. Gabbard, known for her outspoken views on foreign policy and criticisms of the Biden administration, will succeed Avril Haines in overseeing the U.S. intelligence community.
Gabbard, who shifted from the Democratic Party to become an independent in 2022, was a surprising choice for this top intelligence role. Trump lauded her “fearless spirit” and dedication to national security, expressing confidence in her leadership abilities.
Position | Appointee | Background |
Director of National Intelligence | Tulsi Gabbard | Former Congresswoman, Army Reserve Officer |
Attorney General | Matt Gaetz | Congressman, Known Trump Ally |
Secretary of State | Marco Rubio | U.S. Senator with Foreign Policy Experience |
Tulsi Gabbard’s Political Journey and Military Background
Gabbard, 43, represented Hawaii in Congress for four terms and briefly ran for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination before endorsing Joe Biden. Over the years, she has grown popular among conservative audiences, frequently appearing on conservative media platforms to discuss isolationist foreign policy and her opposition to “wokeness.”
While Gabbard has limited direct experience in intelligence work, her military background includes service in Iraq as a major in the Hawaii National Guard and her current role as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves.
Trump’s Other Key Cabinet Appointments
Trump has also announced other prominent appointments to his Cabinet, including:
- Attorney General: Congressman Matt Gaetz, known for his support of Trump’s policies.
- Secretary of State: Senator Marco Rubio, bringing a blend of foreign policy experience and Senate leadership.
Peaceful Transition of Power Initiated at the White House
In a traditional move marking the transition, President Biden hosted President-elect Trump at the White House, signifying a peaceful transfer of power. This meeting underscores the ongoing commitment to American democratic traditions, with Trump’s official inauguration and oath of office scheduled for January 21 at the Capitol.
Thank you, @realDonaldTrump, for the opportunity to serve as a member of your cabinet to defend the safety, security and freedom of the American people. I look forward to getting to work. pic.twitter.com/YHhhzY0lNp
— Tulsi Gabbard 🌺 (@TulsiGabbard) November 13, 2024
Tulsi Gabbard Director of National Intelligence Summary
- Donald Trump names Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence.
- Gabbard, a former Democrat and U.S. Army Reserve lieutenant colonel, is known for her independent views on U.S. foreign policy.
- Additional Cabinet members include Congressman Matt Gaetz as Attorney General and Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State.
- President Biden hosted Trump at the White House in a formal gesture for the transfer of power.
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FAQs Tulsi Gabbard Director of National Intelligence
The Director of National Intelligence oversees the U.S. intelligence community, coordinating efforts across various agencies to ensure national security.
Trump selected Gabbard for her dedication to American values and unique perspective, despite her limited direct intelligence experience.
Congressman Matt Gaetz will serve as Attorney General, and Senator Marco Rubio will be Secretary of State
Gabbard served in the Hawaii National Guard, with deployments in Iraq, and currently holds the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserves.
While she has military experience, Gabbard does not have a direct background in intelligence roles.
The meeting marks a peaceful transfer of power, a U.S. tradition carried out before every presidential inauguration.