Congressman-Elect Hamadeh Backs Tulsi Gabbard for Director of National Intelligence

By Staff Reporter |

Congressman-elect Abraham Hamadeh has publicly endorsed Tulsi Gabbard, the former Hawaii congresswoman, for the position of director of national intelligence. This endorsement comes in a letter signed by Hamadeh and more than 250 veterans who identify as conservative.

The letter emphasizes Gabbard’s military service, noting her decision to enlist in the Army after the 9/11 attacks. “Instead of using her political status to avoid deployment,” the letter states, “Tulsi volunteered to serve in a medical unit in Iraq, directly facing the harsh realities, costs, and traumas of war.” This commitment to service is cited as a key reason for her fitness for a cabinet position under President-elect Trump.

In addition to her military service, Gabbard is recognized for her legislative efforts to enhance care for veterans, particularly concerning toxic exposures and cancer treatment. The veterans who signed the letter described her as “a rare blend of selflessness, courage, and leadership,” qualities deemed essential for reforming the intelligence community.

According to Fox News, a significant portion of the veterans who endorsed Gabbard—70 percent—have backgrounds in special operations or intelligence, with over half being retired personnel.

Gabbard’s military career began in 2003 when she enlisted in the Hawaii Army National Guard. Following her deployment to Iraq as a specialist in a medical unit, she earned a Combat Medical Badge for her service in combat operations. She later graduated at the top of her class from the Alabama Military Academy, receiving a commission as a second lieutenant, and subsequently served in various roles, including as a Military Police officer.

Another Arizona Republican, Congressman Eli Crane, who has a background as a Navy SEAL, also signed the letter endorsing Gabbard. Crane joined the Navy following the 9/11 attacks and served through multiple deployments until 2014.

Hamadeh himself has been serving as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Army Reserve since 2016 and was deployed to Saudi Arabia in 2020.

President-elect Trump announced Gabbard as his nominee for the intelligence director position last month. Gabbard, originally elected as a Democrat, transitioned to an independent status in 2022, before fully aligning with the Republican Party. She publicly supported Trump prior to her official party switch.

During her recent appearances on Capitol Hill, Gabbard addressed questions regarding U.S. involvement in Syria. She reaffirmed her support for Trump’s assertions about the situation, stating, “I stand in full support and wholeheartedly agree with the statements that President Trump has made over these last few days with regards to the developments in Syria.”

Trump had previously remarked that Russia’s engagement in Ukraine had left Syria vulnerable, indicating that the U.S. should refrain from involvement in the conflict. He characterized Syria as not being an ally and advised that the situation should “let it play out” without American interference.