In a recent interview with CBS’s Face the Nation, Vice President J.D. Vance voiced strong support for Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination as Director of National Intelligence, responding firmly to concerns raised by anchor Margaret Brennan over Gabbard’s past positions on foreign policy and national security.
Brennan questioned Gabbard’s qualifications by referencing commentary from various political analysts and editorials, including critiques published by The Wall Street Journal and National Review. Some of the concerns centered around Gabbard’s past statements on whistleblower Edward Snowden and her views on diplomatic engagement in Syria—topics that have prompted debate across party lines in recent years.
Vance, however, stood by the nomination, characterizing Gabbard as a “principled and experienced public servant.” He pointed to her military service, including deployments to the Middle East as a member of the U.S. Army Reserve, as well as her record of independent decision-making during her time in Congress.
“Our intelligence community is facing complex challenges, and Tulsi Gabbard brings a unique perspective rooted in service, not partisanship,” Vance stated. “Her experience and integrity make her well-suited to lead at this critical time.”
He added that a healthy democracy benefits from a variety of viewpoints, and that public servants who ask difficult questions should not be automatically disqualified from leadership roles. Vance emphasized that Gabbard’s approach could offer a fresh lens through which to address oversight and reform within the intelligence community.
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