The Senate Intelligence Committee is set to hold a closed session vote on Tuesday regarding Tulsi Gabbard's nomination to be the director of national intelligence. Concerns have been raised by individuals close to Donald Trump and those involved in confirming his nominees, particularly regarding Gabbard's stance on Edward Snowden's actions.
Republican Senator James Lankford has announced his support for advancing Gabbard's nomination out of the committee after gaining clarity on her position regarding Section 702. Similarly, GOP Senator Susan Collins has expressed satisfaction with Gabbard's responses on Snowden and believes in her commitment to strengthening national security. However, GOP Senator Todd Young has not disclosed his stance on supporting Gabbard's nomination, potentially holding a crucial vote.
Other Recent Confirmations and Appointments
Energy Secretary: Chris Wright was confirmed as energy secretary with a 59-38 vote, aligning with Trump's focus on energy independence.
Attorney General: A filibuster on Pam Bondi's nomination as attorney general was broken with a 52-46 vote, setting up a final confirmation vote for Wednesday.
CIA Deputy Director: Michael Ellis was appointed as the deputy director of the CIA by Trump, a position that does not require Senate confirmation and is considered significant given Trump's past concerns about the 'deep state'.
Other Appointments: Darren Beattie, a former Trump speechwriter, has been promoted to a key role at the State Department as the acting Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, responsible for shaping US messaging on counterterrorism and violent extremism.
