Tulsi Gabbard’s path to confirmation was strengthened on Monday when Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins, a crucial GOP swing vote, declared her support for Gabbard’s nomination as Director of National Intelligence (DNI).
The Senate Intelligence Committee, which will meet on Tuesday to discuss moving Gabbard’s nomination to the full Senate, is under more pressure as a result of Collins’s decision. Collins’ support eliminates a significant obstacle for President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the country’s intelligence community, as all 50 other Republicans are anticipated to support him.
“After extensive consideration of her nomination, I will support Tulsi Gabbard to be the Director of National Intelligence,” Collins said in a statement. “As one of the principal authors of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 that established this coordinating position, I understand the critical role the DNI plays in the Intelligence Community.”
“The Office of the Director of National Intelligence, however, has become far larger than it was designed to be, and Ms. Gabbard shares my vision of returning the agency to its intended size.”
Collins finished, “In response to my questions during our discussion in my office and at the open hearing, as well as through her explanation at the closed hearing before the Senate Intelligence Committee, Ms. Gabbard addressed my concerns regarding her views on Edward Snowden. I look forward to working with Ms. Gabbard to strengthen our national security.”
