U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell | Mitch McConnell Official website
U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell | Mitch McConnell Official website
U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell, who chairs the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, has expressed concerns regarding Tulsi Gabbard's nomination as Director of National Intelligence. In a statement released from Washington, D.C., McConnell emphasized the Senate's duty to provide advice and consent on nominations, stating that this responsibility is not optional.
McConnell questioned Gabbard's suitability for the role, suggesting her record does not meet the standards required for such a high level of public trust. He highlighted the significant role of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) in national security decisions and expressed doubts about Gabbard's readiness to handle these responsibilities.
"The nation should not have to worry that the intelligence assessments the President receives are tainted by a Director of National Intelligence with a history of alarming lapses in judgment," McConnell stated.
He referenced Edward Snowden’s actions as a serious betrayal and stressed that geopolitical tensions in regions like Indo-Pacific and Ukraine are due to external aggressions rather than western exaggerations. McConnell also criticized Gabbard for recognizing critical intelligence collection authorities only when her nomination was at risk.
Despite his reservations, McConnell acknowledged that Gabbard will now lead America's intelligence community. "Beginning today, the brave men and women of America’s intelligence community will turn to Director Gabbard for principled leadership and sounder judgment in the service of America’s interests and national security," he concluded.
Alerts Sign-up