Senator Mark Warner, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, recently met with Tulsi Gabbard, President Trump’s pick to head the U.S. intelligence community. While this meeting was an important step in her confirmation process, Warner left with more questions than answers.
Warner’s initial impression? He still has concerns. “I had questions going in, and I have questions coming out,” he told reporters. Given the vital nature of the role — overseeing national intelligence and maintaining close ties with allies — Warner emphasized the importance of selecting the right person for the job.
While this is still early in the confirmation process, Warner made it clear that Gabbard’s fitness for the job remains uncertain. “I have a lot of questions,” he admitted, adding that Monday’s meeting was his first chance to directly ask her anything.
So, what’s next for Gabbard’s confirmation? It’s unclear when her official hearing will take place. Warner and fellow Democrats have hit pause on any immediate scheduling, as they’ve yet to receive crucial documents like her FBI background check or ethics disclosure.
“We do it by the book,” Warner said, making it clear that delays aren’t intentional, but the process must be followed. He pointed to another nominee, John Ratcliffe, who had all of his materials in order, allowing his hearing to be scheduled sooner.
Despite the holdup, there’s optimism that Gabbard’s background check will soon be completed, especially since she already holds a security clearance. Her ethics disclosure is expected to be finalized soon, despite delays from a recent snowstorm.
Warner also stressed the bipartisan nature of the Intelligence Committee, noting that all nominees are treated fairly, no matter which party is in charge.
Gabbard has met with several Senate Democrats already, including Sens. John Fetterman and Jon Ossoff. She also sat down with Senator Tommy Tuberville, a key Trump ally, who supports her nomination but cautioned that there could be challenges ahead.
Though Gabbard’s confirmation is far from a sure thing, some senators believe she’s on the right track. Senator Mike Rounds, a Republican, praised her for being a quick learner and for having strong meetings with lawmakers. “She’s moving in the right direction,” he said.
As the clock ticks toward her confirmation hearings, Gabbard will have to convince a divided Senate that she’s the right person for the job. Whether she can do that remains to be seen, but one thing is clear — the road ahead won’t be easy.