One-time Democratic potential nominee for President, Tulsi Gabbard, since switched parties and allegiances, and it paid off. Gabbard has been tapped as Donald Trump’s new director of national intelligence (DNI).
In announcing her as his pick for DNI, the President-Elect called the former Democratic Representative from Hawaii a “proud Republican” with a “fearless spirit.”
Gabbard is a veteran who served in Iraq, as well as an Army reservist. She was promoted to lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve three years ago. In a statement about her appointment, Trump said that the former congresswoman “has fought for our Country and the Freedoms of all Americans.”
“As a former Candidate for the Democrat Presidential Nomination, she has broad support in both Parties – She is now a proud Republican!” Trump’s statement said.
“I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community, championing our Constitutional Rights and securing Peace through Strength. Tulsi will make us all proud!”
The director of national intelligence leads the U.S. intelligence community, which includes overseeing the National Intelligence Program and advising the president on security matters. The current national intelligence director is Avril Haines.
Once confirmed to the position, Gabbard will advise Trump, the National Security Council, and the Homeland Security Council on national security matters.
After declaring that she had switched parties several months ago, she actively campaigned for Trump and told Fox News back in September that she would be “honored” to join the Trump administration in any capacity.
“I feel I can make the most impact in these areas of national security and foreign policy and work to bring about the changes that President Trump talks about,” Gabbard said at the time.