Washington, Jan. 30 -- US President Donald Trump's pick for Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, on Thursday, will face what could be the toughest confirmation hearing of any of his top nominees as Democrats and some Republicans have been preparing to question Gabbard about her visit to Syria in 2017, her statements in support of Russia and her concerns regarding domestic surveillance powers, The Washington Post reported.

According to two congressional officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss Trump's nominee, said her approval by the Senate Intelligence Committee to be director of national intelligence is far from assured.

A Senate aide said, "She definitely doesn't have the votes right now" to advance ...