Trump picks first Hindu congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence

Mangalore Today News Network

United State, November 14, 2024: US President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday announced that Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democrat, and the first-ever Hindu Congresswoman, would serve as Director of National Intelligence in his second term.

Tulsi Gabbard, a four-term Congresswoman, 2020 presidential candidate, and New York Times bestselling author, is a decorated military veteran with three deployments to war zones in the Middle East and Africa. Recently, she transitioned from being a Democrat to joining the Republican Party.

“I am proud to announce that former Congresswoman and Lieutenant Colonel Tulsi Gabbard will serve as the next Director of National Intelligence (DNI). For over 20 years, Tulsi has dedicated herself to defending our nation and safeguarding the freedoms of all Americans," President Trump said.

“As a former Democratic presidential candidate, she has garnered widespread support across both parties. Now, as a proud Republican, I have no doubt that Tulsi will bring the same fearless spirit that has defined her remarkable career to the Intelligence Community. She will champion our Constitutional rights and help secure peace through strength. Tulsi will make us all proud," Trump continued.

Gabbard’s political journey

Gabbard’s political career began at the age of 21 when she was elected to the Hawaii State House of Representatives. After the 9/11 attacks, she enlisted in the Army National Guard. In 2004, she chose to forgo a guaranteed re-election to serve in Iraq with the 29th Brigade Combat Team, where she worked in a medical unit. Following her return in 2006, Gabbard worked as a legislative aide to Senator Daniel Akaka, then-chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee. She later volunteered for a second deployment to the Middle East as a platoon leader.

Having seen the true cost of war, Gabbard ran for Congress at age 31, vowing to honor the sacrifices of her fellow service members. She won a tough election and served eight years in the House, where she was a member of the Armed Services, Homeland Security, and Foreign Affairs Committees. After opting not to seek re-election in 2020, she ran for president as a Democrat.

NYT bestseller

In October 2022, Gabbard left the Democratic Party, becoming an Independent. Her first book, For Love of Country: Leave the Democrat Party Behind, was released on April 30, 2024, and quickly reached number four on the New York Times Bestsellers List.

Endorses Trump

In August 2024, she endorsed Trump for a second term and soon after took on a key role as co-chair of his transition team. On October 22, 2024, she officially joined the Republican Party, citing Trump’s leadership and his efforts to transform the party into one that truly represents the people and advocates for peace.