Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard was announced as President-elect Donald Trump‘s pick for director of National Intelligence, adding to a slate of controversial picks for his Cabinet revealed this week.
Gabbard, a former House Democrat turned Trump supporter, raised the eyebrows of several lawmakers over some of her past comments and stances on key matters. If confirmed by the incoming Republican-led Senate next year, she would head the federal government’s intelligence community.
Being friendly with Russia
Gabbard has been critical of the war in Ukraine and has promoted views seen as friendly to Russia.
Shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Gabbard said the military action by Russia could have been avoided if President Joe Biden had “acknowledged Russia’s legitimate security concerns regarding Ukraine’s becoming a member of NATO.”
“This…
