November 14, 2024 – Tulsi Gabbard, a prominent American politician and military veteran, has been appointed by President-elect Donald Trump as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI). This position places her at the head of the U.S. intelligence community, overseeing 18 agencies and serving as the president’s principal advisor on intelligence matters. Gabbard’s appointment is historic, making her the first Hindu American to hold this influential role.
Born on April 12, 1981, in American Samoa and raised in Hawaii, Gabbard has a diverse background with a Samoan father and a mother of European descent who converted to Hinduism. Her upbringing immersed her in Hindu teachings, and her identification with Hinduism has been a notable aspect of her public life, including her decision to take her oath of office on the Bhagavad Gita when first elected to Congress.
Political Career
Gabbard launched her political career at just 21, serving in Hawaii’s House of Representatives before becoming the U.S. Congresswoman for Hawaii’s 2nd district from 2013 to 2021. She was the first Hindu and the first American Samoan to be elected to the U.S. Congress. Known for her strong views on foreign policy, she has been a vocal critic of U.S. military interventions overseas.
In 2020, Gabbard ran for the Democratic presidential nomination but ultimately endorsed Joe Biden after suspending her campaign. By 2022, she announced her departure from the Democratic Party, citing ideological shifts within the party, and soon aligned with the Republicans, endorsing Trump in subsequent political races.
Gabbard’s military background includes more than two decades with the Army National Guard. She served in Iraq and Kuwait, earning a Combat Medical Badge for her work in combat zones. Her military experience has deeply influenced her views on U.S. foreign policy and national defense.
Trump announced Gabbard’s appointment on November 14, commending her “fearless spirit” and bipartisan appeal. Although Gabbard lacks direct experience in intelligence, her military service and distinctive political journey have led to her selection. Gabbard has expressed gratitude for the appointment, highlighting her dedication to strengthening national security under Trump’s administration.
Gabbard’s role as DNI not only underscores her individual achievements but also reflects the evolving dynamics within American politics, especially in terms of party affiliations and foreign policy approaches.
