Former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard is on the verge of becoming President Donald Trump's 14th Cabinet member as the director of national intelligence (DNI). The final Senate confirmation vote for Gabbard was initially scheduled for midnight but was postponed due to a snowstorm in Washington. The 30-hour post-cloture debate on her nomination is set to expire just after midnight.
Typically, a 'time agreement' between Republicans and Democrats minimizes the debate between the cloture motion and the final vote. However, given the controversial nature of Gabbard's nomination and ongoing frustrations with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), no such agreement is expected.
Gabbard is anticipated to be confirmed, having garnered support from hesitant Republicans who previously voted against Trump's Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, considered moderate members, have expressed their support for Gabbard despite voting against Hegseth's confirmation.
Senator Collins, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, voted in favor of advancing Gabbard's nomination to the full Senate floor. Additionally, key Senators Bill Cassidy and Todd Young have also backed Gabbard, with Young initially expressing uncertainty before ultimately voting to advance her nomination.
During her confirmation hearing, concerns were raised regarding Gabbard's past meeting with former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, her stance on FISA Section 702, and her support for NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden. However, these concerns were reportedly addressed by Gabbard's responses and the persuasive support of Senators Cotton and Vance.
With the support of key Senators and the expectation of confirmation, Gabbard is poised to assume the role of DNI under the Trump administration.
