Trump's Pick for Intelligence Chief, Tulsi Gabbard, Faces Bipartisan Scrutiny Over Syria and Russia Stances

Gabbard's controversial foreign policy positions and past defense of Bashar al-Assad complicate her Senate confirmation prospects.

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated former Democratic congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence, a move drawing criticism from both parties.
Gabbard’s past meeting with now-deposed Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad and her opposition to U.S.-backed regime change in Syria have resurfaced as key points of contention.
Critics cite her history of statements perceived as sympathetic to Russia and her promotion of unverified claims about U.S. bio labs in Ukraine as reasons for concern.
Supporters, including former CIA counterterrorism chief Bernard Hudson, praise her independence and military experience, arguing she could bring needed reform to the intelligence community.
Several Republican senators reportedly remain undecided, with concerns about her preparedness and foreign policy views potentially jeopardizing her confirmation.