Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla., recently faced criticism for alleging that Tulsi Gabbard, President-elect Trump’s pick for Director of National Intelligence (DNI), is 'likely a Russian asset.' The claims were made without evidence during an MSNBC interview, prompting backlash online.
Wasserman Schultz's remarks drew sharp responses from commentators who highlighted her own controversies, including accusations of rigging the 2016 election and mishandling sensitive information. Critics pointed out that Gabbard, a former Democratic congresswoman from Hawaii who switched to the Republican Party, has a military background and served in Iraq as well as being an Army reservist.
Gabbard's refusal to label Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad a war criminal during her 2020 presidential campaign was also brought up by Wasserman Schultz, who criticized Gabbard for meeting with Assad in 2017. The former DNC Chair accused Gabbard of violating State Department guidance by engaging with Assad, who has been accused of using chemical weapons on his own citizens.
This is not the first time Gabbard has been accused of being a Russian asset. In a 2019 interview, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton referred to her as the 'favorite of the Russians,' citing apparent Russian media support for Gabbard.
Gabbard's military service and her endorsement by Trump were highlighted in the article. Trump praised Gabbard's dedication to the country and her transition to the Republican Party, expressing confidence in her ability to serve in the intelligence community.
The Director of National Intelligence plays a crucial role in overseeing the U.S. intelligence community, advising the president on security matters. Gabbard, once confirmed, will provide counsel to Trump, the National Security Council, and the Homeland Security Council on national security issues.
