Tulsi Gabbard is a prominent American politician, military veteran, and political commentator who has recently been appointed as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) by President-elect Donald Trump.
Gabbard has had a diverse political career, transitioning from being a Democratic congresswoman to a staunch supporter of Trump and the Republican Party.
Her unique background and outspoken views on foreign policy have made her a significant figure in American politics.
Early Life and Background
Tulsi Gabbard was born on April 12, 1981, in Leloaloa, American Samoa, but she grew up in Hawaii. Her father, Mike Gabbard, is of Samoan and European descent, while her mother, Carol Porter Gabbard, is of German ancestry.
Tulsi’s family followed Hinduism, and she chose to embrace the religion during her teenage years. Despite her Hindu faith, Tulsi Gabbard has clarified that she is not of Indian origin.
This confusion often arises due to her religious beliefs and her public association with Hinduism.
Political Career
Gabbard began her political journey at a young age. She was elected to the Hawaii House of Representatives in 2002 at just 21 years old. Her political career took a brief pause when she was deployed to Iraq as part of the Hawaii Army National Guard, where she served as a major.
Upon returning from Iraq, she continued her public service and was elected to the U.S. Congress in 2012, representing Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District.
Tulsi Gabbard made history as the first Hindu and the first American Samoan elected to the U.S. Congress. She served four terms from 2013 to 2021 and became known for her strong anti-war stance and criticism of U.S. military interventions abroad.
Presidential Campaign and Party Switch
In 2020, Tulsi Gabbard ran for the Democratic presidential nomination. Her campaign focused on progressive policies but also emphasized her opposition to U.S. involvement in “regime change” wars. Although she did not win the nomination, her candidacy elevated her national profile.
In 2022, Gabbard made headlines when she announced her departure from the Democratic Party, citing its control by “an elitist cabal of warmongers” and its focus on “woke” ideologies. She subsequently aligned herself with Republican ideals and became an outspoken supporter of Donald Trump.
Appointment as Director of National Intelligence
On November 13, 2024, President-elect Donald Trump announced Tulsi Gabbard as his choice for Director of National Intelligence (DNI). This position oversees all 18 U.S. intelligence agencies and plays a crucial role in shaping national security policy.
If confirmed by the Senate, Gabbard will be the first person of Samoan descent and the first Hindu to hold this prestigious position.
Trump praised Gabbard’s “fearless spirit” and commitment to American freedoms, emphasizing her bipartisan appeal despite her recent shift toward conservative politics.
FAQs
What is Tulsi Gabbard’s nationality?
Tulsi Gabbard is an American citizen by birth. She was born in American Samoa and raised in Hawaii.
Is Tulsi Gabbard of Indian origin?
No, Tulsi Gabbard is not of Indian origin. Despite practicing Hinduism, she has clarified that she has no Indian roots.
What religion does Tulsi Gabbard follow?
Tulsi Gabbard follows Hinduism, which she embraced during her teenage years.
What role does Tulsi Gabbard currently hold?
Tulsi Gabbard has been appointed as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) by President-elect Donald Trump.