Eight GOP Senators Oppose Tulsi Gabbard's Nomination for Intelligence Chief Amid Assad Meeting Scrutiny

Dec 17, 2024, 11:38 PM

Former congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, nominated by President-elect Donald Trump as Director of National Intelligence, is facing opposition from eight Republican senators. These senators have expressed doubts about her readiness for the role, citing her lack of experience with intelligence agencies, her past meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, and her positions on issues such as opposing U.S. military support for Ukraine and making statements perceived as aligned with Russia. The Trump transition team has voiced concerns over her ability to secure the necessary votes for Senate confirmation. Gabbard has been meeting with lawmakers, including Senator Chuck Grassley, in an effort to address these concerns and build bipartisan support. Her past meetings with Assad have drawn renewed scrutiny following the collapse of the Russia-allied Assad regime. If Republican opposition persists, she would require support from Democratic senators, which sources suggest may be difficult to obtain.