President Donald Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence (DNI), Tulsi Gabbard, has cleared a key hurdle in her confirmation process, advancing with a narrow 9-8 vote from the Senate Intelligence Committee. The full Senate must now hold a confirmation vote to finalize her appointment.
Leading up to the vote, some Republicans who were initially seen as potential opponents of Gabbard’s nomination ultimately backed her. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) expressed her support, emphasizing Gabbard’s commitment to downsizing the intelligence community.
“She shares my vision of returning the agency to its intended size,” Collins stated, arguing that the role of Director of National Intelligence had become too expansive over the years.
Senator Todd Young (R-IN) also signaled his support after what he described as “extensive conversations” with Vice President JD Vance and Gabbard herself. Young, who was previously hesitant, said he received “commitments that will advance our national security” from Gabbard, which ultimately convinced him to vote in her favor.
During her confirmation hearing last week, Gabbard faced sharp questioning from lawmakers on several issues, including her past comments on Edward Snowden, her stance on the Russia-Ukraine war, and her 2017 meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Despite the scrutiny, Gabbard has drawn strong backing from the military community. A letter supporting her nomination was signed by over 250 military veterans, many of whom have served in senior government positions.
As a military veteran herself, Gabbard reaffirmed her dedication to the Constitution during her hearing.
“I will continue to live by the oath that I have sworn at least eight times in my life, both in uniform and as a member of Congress,” she stated. “I will support and defend our God-given freedoms enshrined in the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.”
One of the best opening statements I have ever heard in conformation hearings.
— Eddie Fadel (@EddieFadel) January 30, 2025
Tulsi Gabbard should and MUST be confirmed as DNI.
"I will do my very best to find the truth, no matter where it leads, and share that truth with President Trump."@TulsiGabbard @realDonaldTrump pic.twitter.com/PBEJ7px7tg
The Senate has not yet scheduled a final confirmation vote, but Gabbard’s advancement signals that she remains on track to potentially assume the role of Director of National Intelligence.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.