Bangladesh, Feb. 13 -- Tulsi Gabbard, the former Democratic congresswoman and vocal critic of the US intelligence establishment, has officially been confirmed as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI). In a 52-48 Senate vote on February 12, Gabbard secured her position with only one Republican, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, opposing her nomination. This appointment, championed by President Donald Trump and bolstered by influential figures such as Elon Musk, has ignited fierce debate in Washington, reflecting deeper divisions within the political and intelligence spheres.

Gabbards confirmation followed weeks of intense scrutiny and pushback from both Democrats and establishment Republicans. Having served as a congresswoman ...