Senate GOP leaders have rescheduled the confirmation vote for Tulsi Gabbard to serve as director of national intelligence to 11 a.m. ET on Wednesday due to heavy snowfall affecting the Washington, DC, area.
During her confirmation hearing, Gabbard, a former Democrat, faced inquiries from several Republicans regarding her stances on Russian aggression, US government surveillance, and NSA leaker Edward Snowden.
While Gabbard consistently stated that Snowden had 'broken the law,' she refrained from labeling his actions as treason.
Despite initial concerns raised by some Republicans during the hearing, key figures like GOP Sen. Lisa Murkowski have since expressed support for Gabbard's nomination. Murkowski, a pivotal swing vote, announced her intention to vote in favor of Gabbard, citing the nominee's 'independent thinking' and ability to provide necessary oversight in her new role.
Similarly, Republican Sen. Susan Collins, another influential vote, indicated satisfaction with Gabbard's responses on Snowden and praised her commitment to enhancing national security.
Following Gabbard's confirmation, the Senate will proceed to vote on breaking a filibuster concerning Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination to lead the Department of Health and Human Services.
