The nomination of Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence (DNI) is getting a key boost from Maine Senator Susan Collins.
Collins was considered a crucial swing vote on the Senate Intelligence Committee, which is set to vote Tuesday afternoon on whether to Advance Gabbard to the Senate floor for confirmation.
She had reservations about Gabbard last month but expressed support for her in a statement Monday.
Collins says she’s happy with Gabbard’s intention to reduce the size of the DNI position, and has eased her concerns about Gabbard’s stance on Edward Snowden, who leaked national intelligence.
“After extensive consideration of her nomination, I will support Tulsi Gabbard to be the Director of National Intelligence,” said Collins in her statement. “As one of the principal authors of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 that established this coordinating position, I understand the critical role the DNI plays in the Intelligence Community. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence, however, has become far larger than it was designed to be, and Ms. Gabbard shares my vision of returning the agency to its intended size.
“In response to my questions during our discussion in my office and at the open hearing, as well as through her explanation at the closed hearing before the Senate Intelligence Committee, Ms. Gabbard addressed my concerns regarding her views on Edward Snowden. I look forward to working with Ms. Gabbard to strengthen our national security.”
After Collins endorsement, attention will likely move to Republican Senator Todd Young of Indiana, who is considered the other GOP swing vote on the Intelligence Committee. Young has been critical of Gabbard’s comment on Snowden
