Donald Trump has privately sought input from cabinet officials in recent weeks on whether to replace Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence, driven by frustration over her defense of a former deputy who challenged his justification for military action against Iran.
The discussions, confirmed by two individuals familiar with the matter, signal growing tension between the president and Gabbard. Trump’s dissatisfaction stems from her testimony last month at the worldwide threats hearing on Capitol Hill, where she refrained from criticizing Joe Kent, a recently resigned deputy who argued Iran posed no imminent threat to the U.S. This stance clashed with the administration’s position on the conflict, fueling Trump’s irritation.
While no decision to remove Gabbard has been finalized, and no clear successor has emerged, the president’s habit of consulting advisers often precedes personnel changes. Advisers have warned that an abrupt vacancy could spark political fallout if a replacement isn’t ready.
Gabbard’s tenure has been marked by a series of perceived missteps in Trump’s eyes. Last June, he was irked by a video she recorded after visiting Hiroshima, warning of nuclear war’s horrors in terms he deemed overly alarming. Later, Trump publicly contradicted her testimony to lawmakers that Iran had not committed to building a nuclear weapon, shortly before authorizing strikes on nuclear sites at Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz. Additionally, her decision to revoke security clearances for 37 individuals drew further ire from White House officials.
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Despite these tensions, Trump offered a lukewarm endorsement on Sunday aboard Air Force One, saying, “Yeah, sure,” when asked about his confidence in Gabbard, adding that differing thought processes don’t disqualify someone from serving. White House spokesperson Steven Cheung reinforced this, stating Trump values Gabbard’s tireless efforts and the historic achievements of his cabinet.
Gabbard has had moments of alignment with Trump, notably producing a report claiming Russia did not interfere to boost his 2016 campaign, a finding at odds with congressional probes. Her spokesperson, Olivia Coleman, emphasized her commitment to the responsibilities entrusted by the president, noting recent praise from Trump for her congressional performance.
Still, her role remains precarious. Gabbard’s consistent criticism of U.S. involvement in foreign conflicts, evident since her 2019 congressional statements against pre-emptive strikes, continues to shape her approach, including her recent testimony coordinated with the CIA. Her near-daily presence at the White House in support of the Iran war effort has yet to fully mend the rift.
The situation remains fluid, with Trump historically reluctant to fire officials outright, as seen in his recent demotion of Kristi Noem from homeland security secretary to a state department envoy role. For now, Gabbard’s future hinges on navigating a delicate balance, with her testimony last month still casting a shadow over her standing.
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