New Role in Trump’s Cabinet
President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic representative from Hawaii and an outspoken advocate for Hindu minorities, as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) for his second term. This marks a significant shift for Gabbard, who has transitioned from a four-time Congresswoman to a key figure in Trump’s administration. Known for her candid stance on various issues, Gabbard has often condemned atrocities against Hindus, particularly in Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Advocate for Hindu Rights
Gabbard, the first Hindu Congresswoman in the United States, has a long history of speaking out against the persecution of Hindus in South Asia. In 2021, she introduced a resolution in Congress focused on the protection of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh, highlighting the historical crimes committed by the Pakistani military against Bengali Hindus during the 1971 war. According to her, millions were killed, tortured, or forcibly displaced during this tragic period.
“I’ve worked to cut back U.S. assistance for Pakistan, particularly any military aid,” Gabbard stated, emphasizing her commitment to hold Pakistan accountable for harboring terrorist groups targeting India and other nations. Following Trump’s election, Gabbard has continued to focus on violence against Hindus and other religious minorities, which she describes as a growing concern.
Diverse Background
Born in American Samoa in 1981 to a Samoan-American father and a mother from the U.S. Midwest, Gabbard’s upbringing was steeped in a multicultural and multireligious environment. Her mother, who adopted Hinduism, played a pivotal role in shaping Gabbard’s spiritual outlook. Interestingly, Gabbard’s journey into politics began early; she was elected to the Hawaii State Legislature at just 21 years old.
Her service in the U.S. Army and as an Iraq war veteran adds another layer to her profile, making her one of the few politicians with military experience in a high-level role. Gabbard’s oath of office in Congress was taken on the Bhagavad Gita, illustrating her deep connection to her Hindu faith.
Shift in Political Allegiance
Gabbard’s political journey has not been without controversy. Originally seen as a rising star in the Democratic Party, she has increasingly diverged from party lines, particularly concerning foreign policy. Her opposition to U.S. military actions abroad and criticism of American support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict created friction with party leadership, ultimately leading her to resign from the Democratic Party in 2022. She has since embraced a more independent stance while aligning herself with many of Trump’s policies.
The Role of Director of National Intelligence
As the DNI, Gabbard will oversee the U.S. intelligence community and provide essential insights to the President on national security matters. Her responsibilities include preparing the President’s Daily Brief, coordinating across 18 different intelligence agencies in a role established following the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations. Gabbard’s appointment will require Senate approval, which is expected to be a formality given the Republican majority.
Looking Ahead
While Gabbard’s appointment is a significant advancement in her career, it also raises questions about potential conflicts with established intelligence protocols and assessments that she has often contested. Recognized for her fierce independence and controversial views, her leadership in this critical role could reshape parts of U.S. intelligence operations, particularly as relations with South Asian nations continue to evolve.
This new chapter for Tulsi Gabbard solidifies her as a prominent figure in American politics, particularly at a time when issues of national security and international relations are more pressing than ever.
