Tulsi Gabbard has resigned as US director of national intelligence after a tumultuous tenure in which she was largely sidelined by President Donald Trump. In a letter to Trump, she announced her departure effective June 30, citing her husband's recent diagnosis with a rare form of bone cancer. 'At this time, I must step away from public service to be by his side and fully support him through this battle,' she wrote.
Background of Her Tenure
Gabbard, a former Democrat, was an unconventional choice for the role, lacking an intelligence background and holding foreign policy views that sometimes diverged from Trump's, particularly on overseas military intervention. Nevertheless, she took unusual measures to ingratiate herself with the president, vowing to root out politicization across US spy agencies and embracing his election denial agenda.
Sidelined by Trump
Over time, Gabbard became increasingly marginalized. Trump excluded her from key national security conversations on Iran and Venezuela, according to sources familiar with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. The White House reportedly forced her resignation, though a spokesperson for Gabbard denied this, calling such claims '100% false.' Trump initially praised her work, but sources say he had been asking cabinet members whether he should replace her.
Resignation Announcement
Trump confirmed Gabbard's departure on his Truth Social platform, stating she 'has done an incredible job, and we will miss her.' He appointed Aaron Lukas, principal deputy director of national intelligence, as acting director. Gabbard's resignation letter acknowledged progress but noted unfinished work.
In related news, Trump's nominee for surgeon general, Dr. Nicole Saphier, faces scrutiny for selling a supplement containing an ingredient banned by the US military. Kevin Warsh has been sworn in as Federal Reserve chair amid economic pressures. US arms sales to Taiwan are reportedly 'paused' due to Iran operations. Additionally, Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have raised the specter of military intervention in Cuba, and attorneys for Mahmoud Khalil are seeking Supreme Court intervention in his deportation case. Trump confirmed he will not attend his son's wedding, citing government obligations.
