Tulsi Gabbard, President Donald Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence (DNI), is gaining critical support ahead of Tuesday’s Senate Intelligence Committee vote.
With Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) announcing her backing on Monday, Gabbard’s confirmation prospects have received a significant boost, though the focus now shifts to other key swing votes, notably Senator Todd Young (R-IN).
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Senator Collins, a moderate Republican and influential swing vote, had previously opposed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s nomination.
Her support for Gabbard signals growing confidence in the former Hawaii congresswoman’s qualifications and bipartisan appeal. Collins’ endorsement is seen as a pivotal moment in Gabbard’s confirmation process, as it underscores her ability to bridge divides within the Senate.
“As one of the principal authors of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 that established this coordinating position, I understand the critical role the DNI plays in the Intelligence Community. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence, however, has become far larger than it was designed to be, and Ms. Gabbard shares my vision of returning the agency to its intended size,” said Collins.
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“In response to my questions during our discussion in my office and at the open hearing, as well as through her explanation at the closed hearing before the Senate Intelligence Committee, Ms. Gabbard addressed my concerns regarding her views on Edward Snowden,” Collins added.
However, Senator Young remains a wildcard. As one of the few Republicans yet to publicly commit to supporting Gabbard, his vote could prove decisive. Allies of Gabbard are closely watching his stance, with some drawing parallels to Senator Thom Tillis’ (R-NC) last-minute hesitation before ultimately voting to confirm Hegseth.
Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), a close ally of President Trump and a vocal advocate for the administration’s nominees, expressed optimism about Gabbard’s chances. “Tulsi has done the work,” Mullin told reporters, highlighting her extensive preparation and engagement with senators.
Conversations between Senate leadership and undecided members are ongoing, with both Gabbard and Health and Human Services (HHS) nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr. being discussed. GOP leadership remains confident that even skeptical senators are willing to engage in dialogue, suggesting a potential path to confirmation for both nominees.
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Despite the positive momentum, challenges remain. Senators Young and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) were notably tight-lipped when approached by reporters on Monday, refusing to comment on their voting intentions. Their reluctance has added an element of uncertainty to Tuesday’s vote.
Gabbard’s nomination has been a focal point of bipartisan discussions, with her military background, foreign policy expertise, and independent streak earning her praise from both sides of the aisle.
If confirmed, she would become the first woman to serve as Director of National Intelligence, a role critical to overseeing the nation’s intelligence agencies and ensuring national security.
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