Senate Democrats are delaying Tulsi Gabbard’s confirmation hearing for Director of National Intelligence, citing incomplete background checks and ethics disclosures.
At a Glance
- Senate Democrats postpone Tulsi Gabbard’s confirmation hearing for Director of National Intelligence
- Sen. Mark Warner cites missing FBI background check, ethics disclosure, and pre-hearing questionnaire
- Republicans support Gabbard, emphasizing her military service and intelligence expertise
- Delay highlights political divisions in national security appointments
Democrats Raise Concerns Over Missing Documentation
Senate Democrats are putting the brakes on President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard. The delay stems from concerns about incomplete background checks and ethics disclosures, crucial elements in the vetting process for such a high-level national security position.
Senator Mark Warner of Virginia, the Democratic vice chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, is at the forefront of these concerns. Warner has pointed out several missing documents that are typically required before a confirmation hearing can proceed.
SCOOP: Senate Democrats are forcing a delay in Tulsi Gabbard's confirmation hearing next week, claiming she hasn't provided required vetting materials — while Republicans accuse them of playing games, Axios has learned. https://t.co/KSEYbUopi3
— Axios (@axios) January 7, 2025
Required Documentation and Committee Rules
According to committee rules, certain documents must be submitted well in advance of a confirmation hearing. These include an FBI background check, ethics disclosure, and a pre-hearing questionnaire. The background check, in particular, is required to be submitted at least a week before the hearing. The committee has not yet received Gabbard’s FBI background check, ethics disclosure or a pre-hearing questionnaire, one source stated. Committee rules require the background check a week in advance of a hearing,
However, there are conflicting reports about the status of these documents. A source claims that Gabbard has already completed her background check and submitted the necessary questionnaires. This discrepancy adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
Republican Support and Democratic Caution
Despite the delays, Gabbard has garnered strong support from several Republican senators. They emphasize her valuable military service as a lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserves and her experience as a former member of Congress who served on key committees. “I’m 100 percent for Tulsi. She’s going to be great, and I look forward to her taking over in the very near future.” stated GOP Sen. Tommy Tuberville of Alabama.
However, Democrats remain cautious. Senator Warner, after meeting with Gabbard, expressed ongoing concerns about the importance of the role and the need to protect the intelligence community’s independence.
Political Implications and National Security
The delay in Gabbard’s confirmation hearing highlights the broader political divisions surrounding national security appointments. Trump transition spokeswoman Alexa Henning criticized the Democrats’ approach, suggesting that it puts national security at risk.
The role of Director of National Intelligence is crucial, overseeing 18 organizations within the U.S. intelligence community, including the CIA. As such, the thorough vetting of any nominee is paramount to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of the nation’s intelligence apparatus.
Without the required materials or Democratic approval, Gabbard’s confirmation hearing could be delayed until late next week or even later. This situation underscores the complex interplay between national security concerns and political processes in the appointment of high-level intelligence officials.
Sources:
Senate Democrats Throw a Big Wrench in Tulsi Gabbard’s Confirmation Hearing
