Vice President J.D. Vance pushed back during a recent CBS interview after anchor Margaret Brennan raised concerns about Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination for Director of National Intelligence.
The conversation focused on past critiques from various media outlets questioning Gabbard’s stances on intelligence-related matters. Brennan quoted conservative editorials that criticized Gabbard for her defense of whistleblower Edward Snowden and her skepticism of certain U.S. intelligence reports, notably regarding Syria.
“Does any of this give you pause putting her in charge of the U.S. intelligence community?” Brennan asked.
Vance responded by emphasizing Gabbard’s service background and his belief that she could help restore public trust in the intelligence community.
“Tulsi is a career military servant who’s had a classification at the highest levels for nearly two decades,” he said. “She has an impeccable record of service and character… She’s the right person to help restore trust in our intelligence services.”
Brennan challenged Vance on whether Gabbard’s skepticism toward intelligence agencies might be an issue. Vance responded that Gabbard’s approach was about oversight and accountability, not distrust.
“She recognizes the bureaucrats have gotten out of control, and we need somebody there who’s going to rein them in,” he said.
Gabbard appears to be on track for confirmation. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana) both expressed their support for her nomination. Murkowski acknowledged concerns about Gabbard’s past positions but said she appreciated her commitment to balancing oversight and national security.
“I will vote to confirm Tulsi Gabbard,” Murkowski said, citing her independent approach and focus on civil liberties.
Gabbard, a former member of Congress from 2013 to 2021, has increasingly positioned herself as a voice for reform within national security institutions. Her nomination by President Trump has drawn both praise and criticism across the political spectrum.
A final Senate vote on her confirmation is expected Wednesday.
