Statements from Republican senators or major news outlets

Tulsi Gabbard Reverses Stance on FISA 702 Amid Senate Delays in DNI Confirmation

Jan 10, 2025, 02:30 PM

President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, is facing delays in her Senate confirmation as Democrats cite a lack of documentation and express concerns over her previous opposition to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act's Section 702. In response, Gabbard has reversed her stance and now supports Section 702, aiming to alleviate concerns and secure confirmation. She met with current DNI Avril Haines and has the complete support of Republican senators like Markwayne Mullin, who called her "an American patriot." Senator Tom Cotton confirmed that Gabbard supports Section 702 as recently amended. Critics from civil liberties groups express disappointment over Gabbard's reversal, noting that Section 702 allows surveillance without warrants. Republican senators emphasize the need for her swift confirmation to restore faith in the intelligence community.