Tulsi Gabbard and Kash Patel faced rigorous confirmation hearings this week as they seek to secure prominent positions within the U.S. intelligence community. Former Democrat and military veteran Tulsi Gabbard, nominated by former President Donald Trump to be director of national intelligence, and Kash Patel, a former federal prosecutor and Trump administration aide nominated as FBI director, both came under intense scrutiny. Their past statements and associations have raised questions about their suitability for these critical roles.
Gabbard's nomination has stirred debate due to her controversial past remarks and actions. Notably, she previously supported government whistleblower Edward Snowden, calling him "brave." Snowden leaked millions of classified documents, alleging that the U.S. was conducting illegal surveillance on its citizens. Although Gabbard described Snowden as a "traitor" for breaking the law, her initial support has left many questioning her stance on intelligence matters.
In addition, Gabbard's relationship with Russia's President Vladimir Putin and her remarks on NATO expansion in Eastern Europe have drawn attention. She called Putin's security concerns "legitimate," sparking criticism amid heightened tensions in Eastern Europe. Gabbard's 2017 visit to Syria, where she met with former President Bashar al-Assad, also remains a focal point of contention. During the hearing, she clarified that she "shed no tears" for Assad's regime, emphasizing her lack of affection for dictators like Assad and Muammar Gaddafi.
"I have no love for Assad or Gaddafi or any dictator" – Tulsi Gabbard
Gabbard brings notable military experience to the table as a lieutenant colonel in the National Guard with two deployments to the Middle East. However, her lack of formal intelligence experience raises concerns about her ability to lead national intelligence effectively. Despite this, she remains steadfast in her dedication to national security and vowed to take immediate steps to prevent incidents similar to Snowden's leaks.
"He released information about the United States … I have more immediate steps that I would take to prevent another Snowden" – Tulsi Gabbard
Kash Patel's nomination as FBI director is equally contentious due to his past support for Capitol rioters and his criticism of the FBI. Patel has been vocal about declining public confidence in the bureau and the rise in violent crime, calling for reforms within the agency. He authored a book titled "Government Gangsters," which discusses what he perceives as the "deep state" targeting Trump.
Despite his past remarks, Patel emphasized during his hearing that he does not condone violence against law enforcement, including those involved in the January 6 Capitol riots.
"I have always rejected any violence against law enforcement, including in that group, any violence against law enforcement on January 6" – Kash Patel
Patel assured senators of his commitment to uphold the FBI’s core mission of thoroughly investigating cases with constitutional and factual basis.
"I will remain focused on the FBI's core mission, that is to investigate fully wherever there is a constitutional factual basis to do so" – Kash Patel
Both nominees' hearings highlighted the complexities of their past actions and statements. While Gabbard's military background offers some reassurance of her commitment to national security, her previous endorsements and relationships may undermine her candidacy. Similarly, Patel’s criticism of the FBI and his ties to January 6 rioters challenge his ability to lead an agency he has previously disparaged.
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