Republicans Rally Around Gabbard
Senator James Lankford (R-OK) recently announced his support for President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence (DNI), former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), during an interview on NBC News’s Meet the Press. Lankford’s backing comes after Gabbard made an important shift on a critical national security issue: her stance on FISA Section 702.
For those unfamiliar, FISA Section 702 authorizes U.S. intelligence agencies to conduct warrantless surveillance of foreign nationals outside the U.S. in order to track potential terrorist activities. This provision is a key tool in preventing attacks on American soil, as it allows intelligence agencies to intercept communications from foreign targets. Gabbard, during her time in Congress, consistently voted against the reauthorization of Section 702. However, Lankford expressed confidence in her recent reversal, which he sees as a crucial step for national security.
“Yes, I am,” Lankford affirmed when asked if he would support Gabbard for the DNI position. He explained that her shift on Section 702 was particularly significant. “It’s important to note that Section 702 has nothing to do with surveillance of American citizens. It’s about keeping Americans safe by tracking terrorists abroad. That’s the core issue,” he said. Lankford also referenced a statement Gabbard made, where she committed to protecting Americans’ Fourth Amendment rights while preserving necessary intelligence tools like Section 702 to protect the country.
Lankford emphasized the importance of ensuring that the DNI is committed to safeguarding American security while upholding constitutional freedoms. He praised Gabbard for taking the time to clarify her position on this vital issue, noting that a public discussion on the matter would allow her to address any concerns during her confirmation process. “This is a role that requires clear leadership, and it’s crucial that we understand how nominees will handle critical issues like Section 702,” Lankford concluded.
Lankford’s endorsement signals strong bipartisan support for Gabbard’s nomination, as he believes her willingness to reconsider her stance on key security issues demonstrates her commitment to the nation’s safety while respecting individual rights.
