Tulsi Gabbard's Confirmation Hearing Faces GOP Doubts, Key Votes Undecided

Tulsi Gabbard's nomination as Director of National Intelligence by President Donald Trump faces significant challenges, with several Republican senators undecided on their support. Criticism stems from her past controversial actions, such as her visit to Syrian President Bashar Assad and her stance on Edward Snowden, as well as her opposition to Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. Some GOP senators, including Susan Collins and Todd Young, are wary of her previous positions, and all Republican votes are crucial for her advancement given Democratic opposition. Despite this, there is a backup plan to advance her nomination to the Senate floor with no recommendation if committee support is insufficient. The nomination is contentious, reflecting broader dissatisfaction with how nominees from Trump's administration are being handled. As the hearing approaches, Gabbard's past and the political dynamics around intelligence community oversight are under intense scrutiny.