Hundreds of veterans from across the United States are voicing strong support for former Democratic Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard to serve as Director of National Intelligence (DNI) under President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming administration.
A letter titled “American Veterans for Tulsi Gabbard,” signed by over 250 veterans, was released Monday and obtained by Fox News Digital.
The letter emphasizes Gabbard’s military service, dedication to veterans’ health, and commitment to defending American interests.
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Signatories include notable names such as retired Gen. Michael Flynn, former acting Secretary of Defense Chris Miller, Arizona Rep. Eli Crane, Florida Rep. Brian Mast, and political commentator Jack Posobiec.
The letter highlights Gabbard’s military background, which began in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks when she enlisted in the Army National Guard.
Gabbard later deployed to Iraq, serving in a medical unit and directly confronting the realities of war.
She currently holds the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserves, a position she has held since 2021 after nearly two decades in the Hawaii Army National Guard.
“Her commitment to service did not end there,” the letter reads, pointing to Gabbard’s advocacy for veterans’ health during her time in Congress. “Tulsi’s life exemplifies a rare blend of selflessness, courage, and leadership—qualities desperately needed to reform and strengthen our intelligence community.”
Trump’s nomination of Gabbard has sparked criticism from some Democrats, including Sen. Tammy Duckworth of Illinois, who questioned her relationships with foreign nations and suggested she might not pass a security clearance. However, the veterans’ letter dismisses such claims as baseless.
“We are appalled by the baseless attacks questioning Tulsi’s loyalty to our great nation,” the letter states. “These attacks insult not only her, but every one of us Veterans who have served our country.”
The veterans accuse critics of spreading false narratives to avoid addressing Gabbard’s substantive views, calling her patriotism “shaped on the battlefield” and her leadership an antidote to Washington’s entrenched failures.
Trump announced Gabbard’s nomination just days after his election victory over Kamala Harris.
In a Truth Social post, Trump praised Gabbard’s “fearless spirit” and her commitment to strengthening America’s national security without unnecessary wars.
“She will bring a fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community, championing our Constitutional Rights, and securing Peace through Strength,” Trump wrote.
If confirmed, Gabbard will oversee the U.S. intelligence community and advise the president on critical security matters.
Gabbard is expected to meet with Senate Intelligence Committee members and Republican leadership this week to build support for her confirmation.
Critics have attempted to paint her as sympathetic to U.S. adversaries, but her veteran supporters strongly disagree.
The veterans emphasize Trump’s clear mandate to enhance national security while avoiding unnecessary conflicts, expressing confidence that Gabbard will uphold this vision.
“We are deeply grateful to President Trump for appointing Tulsi Gabbard to this critical role and proud to stand beside her—a leader whose courage and convictions we know firsthand,” the letter concludes. “A warrior whose vote cannot be bought, and whose integrity cannot be folded.”
Gabbard served as a Democratic congresswoman representing Hawaii from 2012 to 2021 before leaving the party in 2022.
She later registered as an independent and endorsed Trump during the 2024 presidential campaign.
As Gabbard prepares for her confirmation hearings, her military record, congressional experience, and vocal opposition to endless wars remain central to her qualifications for the role of Director of National Intelligence.
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