Charleston Leader

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito has announced her support for the confirmation of Lieutenant Colonel Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence (DNI). Following the vote, Capito released a statement highlighting Gabbard's extensive background in national security.

"Tulsi Gabbard brings more than 20 years of national security experience to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army Reserve," said Senator Capito. "As both a soldier and a former Member of Congress serving on the Foreign Affairs, Homeland Security, and Armed Services committees, she has been a consumer of intelligence for many years, giving her valuable insight into the intelligence needs of our government and military."

Capito also expressed her intention to collaborate with Gabbard on defense-related initiatives. "In my role as a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, I look forward to working closely with Director Gabbard to execute and properly resource President Trump’s Peace Through Strength agenda so the men and women who work hard to keep our country safe have everything they need for their important missions," she stated.

Prior to this confirmation, Capito met with Lt. Col. Gabbard in January 2025 to discuss her nomination and vision for leading the agency. The two have previously served together in the U.S. House of Representatives.