tulsi gabbard

Tulsi Gabbard Gets Stunning Endorsement, Increasing Chance of Confirmation

Republican Maine Sen. Susan Collins announced Monday she will support President Donald Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard.

“After extensive consideration of her nomination, I will support Tulsi Gabbard to be the Director of National Intelligence,” Collins said. She emphasized the importance of the DNI role in coordinating intelligence efforts.

Collins pointed out an area of agreement with Gabbard.

“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,” she said.

She also addressed concerns about Gabbard’s stance on Edward Snowden.

“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 said. “I look forward to working with Ms. Gabbard to strengthen our national security.”

Collins, a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, will vote in Gabbard’s confirmation. She previously voted against Trump’s Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, making her a swing vote in this decision.

She had earlier raised concerns about Gabbard’s opposition to Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. Gabbard also faced scrutiny for calling whistleblowers “brave” and refusing to label Snowden a traitor.

“After extensive consideration, conversations with her in my office, attending the hearing and questioning her there, and listening to her in the closed session, I decided to vote — that I will vote for her,” Collins said. She added that Gabbard is committed to national security and that she was “satisfied” with her responses on Snowden.

Republican Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma also announced his support. He questioned Gabbard about Snowden during her hearing.

If all Democrats on the committee oppose Gabbard, she will need every Republican vote. As of now, Indiana Sen. Todd Young remains undecided.