Republicans Flip On Gabbard?

Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) recently expressed uncertainty over the nomination of former Hawaii Representative Tulsi Gabbard to lead the nation’s intelligence agencies, suggesting that she might face significant opposition when it comes to confirmation. During an appearance on MSNBC’s The ReidOut, Kelly revealed that some of his Senate colleagues remain uneasy about Gabbard overseeing 18 separate intelligence agencies. “I think some of them are still really uncomfortable with her running 18 intelligence agencies,” Kelly explained, casting doubt on her ability to secure the necessary votes for confirmation.

Gabbard, a former Democratic lawmaker who has often made headlines for her unorthodox foreign policy views, has sparked debate in the Senate, especially over her past comments. Even after Thursday’s confirmation hearing, Kelly noted that questions remained about Gabbard’s previous controversial statements on foreign affairs. Many of his Republican colleagues, in particular, have raised concerns about her positions, especially her past comments on figures like Russian informant Edward Snowden. Gabbard’s defense of Snowden, a former NSA contractor who leaked sensitive information, was a particular point of contention. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) criticized Gabbard for her repeated calls to pardon Snowden, emphasizing the severe damage he caused to national security. “When we find Americans who leak critical information, we hold them accountable,” Young remarked, pointing out the harm Snowden’s actions did to the intelligence community.

However, not all Republicans are opposed to Gabbard. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) offered a more favorable assessment, noting that Gabbard had firmly rejected the idea of pardoning Snowden during her confirmation hearing. Still, Collins made it clear that she is undecided on whether she would ultimately support Gabbard’s nomination. The confirmation process remains uncertain, and with divisions in both parties, it’s unclear whether Gabbard will have the support needed to assume this critical position in U.S. national security.

While some Republicans appreciate her direct responses, the broader question remains whether Gabbard’s record and past comments will undermine her chances of being confirmed to lead the nation’s intelligence agencies.