In a closely watched vote, the U.S. Senate confirmed Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence on Thursday, approving her nomination by a narrow 52–46 margin. The confirmation was largely backed by Republicans, with one notable exception: Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), who was the only Republican to vote “no.”
All 47 Senate Democrats opposed the nomination, but with support from the rest of the GOP, Gabbard’s appointment moved forward.
Gabbard, a former congresswoman and military veteran, is expected to be sworn in at the White House later today. Her confirmation marks a key part of President Trump’s efforts to shake up leadership across the U.S. intelligence community.
Republican Senators Rally Behind Gabbard
Earlier this week, Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) publicly endorsed Gabbard’s nomination, solidifying the votes needed for her confirmation. Murkowski acknowledged her reservations but said Gabbard could help bring oversight and balance to the intelligence agencies.
“While I still have concerns about some of her past positions, I respect her commitment to holding the agency accountable,” Murkowski wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Cassidy also backed the nomination, saying, “I trust President Trump’s judgment on this.”
Gabbard represented Hawaii in Congress from 2013 to 2021. She left the Democratic Party in 2022, endorsed Trump’s 2024 campaign, and officially joined the GOP in 2023.
McConnell Breaks Ranks
McConnell’s opposition to Gabbard’s confirmation stood out. Though he hasn’t publicly explained his decision, the vote signaled a quiet but pointed break from most of his party. The move raised eyebrows given Gabbard’s prominent role in Trump’s national security agenda.
What’s Next: More Cabinet Confirmations Ahead
Gabbard’s confirmation is just the beginning of a series of high-stakes votes on President Trump’s Cabinet nominees. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has advanced five more picks for Senate review.
One of the most closely watched is Robert F. Kennedy Jr., nominated for Secretary of Health and Human Services. The Senate voted 52–47 on Wednesday to move his nomination forward, with a final vote expected Thursday or Friday.
Senator Cassidy, who was initially on the fence, announced his support for Kennedy after discussions with Vice President J.D. Vance.
“I want to thank VP J.D. for his candid advice,” Cassidy said in a post. “Based on the commitments I’ve received from the administration, I’ll be voting yes.”
Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID), chair of the Senate Finance Committee, also voiced strong support for Kennedy, pointing to his focus on health care reform and government transparency.
