Vice President J.D. Vance Defends Tulsi Gabbard Against Media Criticism
During a CBS interview, anchor Margaret Brennan attempted to challenge Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination for Director of National Intelligence by citing critical headlines from conservative publications. However, Vice President J.D. Vance strongly dismissed the attacks, asserting that media opinions do not determine presidential appointments.
Brennan pointed to criticism from the Wall Street Journal and National Review, which labeled Gabbard an “atrocious nominee” and questioned her stance on Edward Snowden and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. She asked Vance whether this criticism gave him pause about supporting her confirmation.
Vance responded firmly:
“No, Margaret. Look, these are publications that attacked Donald J. Trump obsessively. But those publications don’t determine who the president is—the American people do. And Donald J. Trump is the person who determines who his cabinet is, not these publications that, frankly, have lost relevance.”
Brennan countered by stating that the Senate would have the final say on Gabbard’s nomination.
Vance acknowledged the Senate’s role in providing advice and consent but expressed confidence that Gabbard would ultimately be confirmed. He emphasized her extensive military service, top-level security clearance, and commitment to restoring trust in the intelligence community.
“She has impeccable character and a strong record of service. The intelligence agencies have become politicized, and we need leadership that restores trust. Tulsi is the right person for that job.”
Brennan challenged this by noting that Gabbard herself has been critical of U.S. intelligence agencies, to which Vance maintained that reform is necessary.
This exchange highlights a shift in American politics, where substance and qualifications are increasingly prioritized over media-driven narratives in major government appointments.