The U.S. Senate voted on Monday to advance the nomination of former Representative Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence, continuing President Donald Trump’s successful push to confirm even his most controversial nominees for administration roles.
The Senate voted 52-46 on a procedural measure to limit debate on the highly scrutinized nomination, surpassing the simple majority required to move forward with a full vote on her confirmation later this week. The vote fell along party lines, with every Republican supporting Gabbard’s nomination, while Democrats opposed it.
Despite concerns over Gabbard’s lack of significant intelligence experience and past comments seen as sympathetic to U.S. adversaries, Trump’s fellow Republicans have rallied behind her. Gabbard, a 43-year-old former Democrat, has faced scrutiny for her past positions, including her defense of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and her support of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, whom she met in Syria while he was under U.S. sanctions.
The Senate Intelligence Committee had recommended Gabbard’s nomination for full Senate consideration by a narrow 9-8 vote, also along party lines.
Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune urged support for Gabbard, praising her decision to scale back the size of the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) office, in line with the Trump administration’s efforts to reduce the size of federal agencies. “I look forward to confirming Ms. Gabbard this week,” Thune said.
Some senators have questioned the choice of Gabbard, an Army National Guard veteran with no prior experience on an intelligence committee, for the role overseeing all 18 U.S. intelligence agencies. Concerns were also raised about her previous comments defending U.S. National Security Agency leaker Edward Snowden, and her perceived pro-Russia stance.
In her confirmation hearing, Gabbard faced sharp questioning from both Republican and Democratic senators about her past defense of Snowden and her comments regarding Russia and Syria. Gabbard had introduced legislation in the House of Representatives to drop criminal charges against Snowden, who leaked classified NSA documents and sought asylum in Russia after fleeing to China.
Despite these concerns, Republicans have praised Gabbard for now stating she would prosecute leakers, downplaying her past positions on Russia and Syria.
When the full Senate votes on her confirmation, expected early Wednesday morning, Gabbard cannot afford to lose more than three Republican votes if Democrats remain united against her.
Lucky Items for Each Zodiac Sign in 2025 ✨🔮
As we step into 2025, each zodiac sign has a special item that can attract good luck, positive energy, and success. Here’s what you should keep close to maximize your fortune this year!
♈ Aries (March 21 – April 19) – Red Bracelet 🔴
Aries is ruled by Mars, the planet of action and energy. A red bracelet (especially made of string or beads) will enhance their confidence, bring protection, and boost their luck in new ventures.
♉ Taurus (April 20 – May 20) – Jade Stone 💚
Taurus thrives with stability and prosperity. A jade stone (as a ring, necklace, or charm) will attract financial growth, emotional balance, and good health throughout 2025.
♊ Gemini (May 21 – June 20) – Silver Pendant 🩶
Geminis are quick thinkers and communicators. A silver pendant (especially in the shape of a feather or key) will help them stay focused, improve luck in decision-making, and attract new opportunities.
♋ Cancer (June 21 – July 22) – Moonstone 🌙
Ruled by the Moon, Cancer benefits from a moonstone (as a ring, bracelet, or charm) to enhance intuition, emotional stability, and protection from negative energy.
♌ Leo (July 23 – August 22) – Gold Coin or Sun Charm ☀️
Leos love to shine, and a small gold coin or a sun-shaped charm will enhance their charisma, bring career success, and help them maintain their leadership energy in 2025.
♍ Virgo (August 23 – September 22) – Amethyst Crystal 💜
Virgos thrive on clarity and precision. An amethyst crystal (as jewelry or a small pocket stone) will help them reduce stress, attract wisdom, and maintain mental balance.
♎ Libra (September 23 – October 22) – Rose Quartz Heart 💗
Libras seek harmony and love. A rose quartz heart-shaped stone will boost romantic luck, improve relationships, and help them maintain inner peace throughout the year.
♏ Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) – Obsidian Stone ⚫
Scorpios are powerful yet need protection. A black obsidian stone (worn as a ring or bracelet) will shield them from negative energy and strengthen their intuition in 2025.
♐ Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) – Horseshoe Charm 🧲
Sagittarians are adventurous and lucky by nature. A horseshoe charm (as a necklace or keychain) will enhance their good fortune, protect them during travels, and attract exciting opportunities.
♑ Capricorn (December 22 – January 19) – Tiger’s Eye Bracelet 🐅
Capricorns are hardworking and goal-oriented. A tiger’s eye bracelet will bring strength, focus, and career success while protecting them from negative influences.
♒ Aquarius (January 20 – February 18) – Evil Eye Amulet 👁️
As a visionary sign, Aquarius can attract envy. Wearing an evil eye amulet (as jewelry or a keychain) will protect them from negativity and enhance their innovative energy in 2025.
♓ Pisces (February 19 – March 20) – Seashell Charm 🐚
Pisces is deeply connected to water and intuition. A seashell charm (kept in their pocket or as a necklace) will bring emotional balance, enhance creativity, and attract good fortune.
✨ Which lucky item will you carry in 2025? ✨ 😍