President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for director of national intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, has expressed her backing for a crucial government surveillance authority, a significant shift from her previous stance on the matter.
Gabbard, who has been engaging with senators from both parties in recent weeks to secure their support for her confirmation, stated that she would support FISA Section 702 if appointed as Trump's spy chief. This marks a departure from her past efforts to repeal the same authority and her concerns about domestic surveillance.
In a statement released on Friday, Gabbard emphasized the importance of Section 702 in gathering foreign intelligence on non-U.S. individuals abroad. She highlighted the necessity of safeguarding this unique capability to protect the nation while upholding the civil liberties of Americans.
Gabbard acknowledged that her previous reservations about FISA were rooted in insufficient protections for civil liberties, particularly regarding the FBI's warrantless search powers on American citizens. She noted that significant FISA reforms have been implemented since her time in Congress to address these concerns.
If confirmed as director of national intelligence, Gabbard pledged to uphold Americans' Fourth Amendment rights while ensuring the preservation of essential national security tools like Section 702 to safeguard the safety and freedom of the American people.
Additionally, Gabbard held a meeting with the current director of national intelligence, Avril Haines, on Friday, although details of their discussion were not disclosed.
The announcement regarding Gabbard's support for FISA Section 702 was first reported by Punchbowl.
The development comes amidst ongoing uncertainty surrounding Gabbard's confirmation process, as she continues her efforts to garner bipartisan backing for her appointment.
Meanwhile, President Trump received an unconditional discharge for his conviction last year on multiple charges of business fraud related to payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential campaign.
