US VP Vance calls Tulsi Gabbard "patriot" following resignation as DNI; prays for her husband after cancer diagnosis
Washington DC, May 23
US Vice President JD Vance on Friday lauded Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, calling her a patriot following her resignation.
Vance expressed condolences and wished her husband well after he was diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer.
In a post on X, he said, "Tulsi is a patriot, a great asset to the administration, and a dear friend. I'm sorry to see her go, but certainly understand that family comes first. She and her husband Abraham will be in my prayers as they face this next challenge together, and she has my gratitude for being a great addition to the administration and a loyal confidante. Godspeed Tulsi!"
The resignation of Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard saw reactions from several leaders from the US, but it got a wish from an unlikely nation: Iran.
The Iranian Embassy in Armenia on Saturday lauded Gabbard for speaking the 'truth' about Iran that US President Donald Trump was uncomfortable with.
In a post on X, the Embassy said, "We wish Abraham a swift and complete recovery. You have previously shown at times that you work for America and not Israel, and sometimes you spoke truths about Iran that Trump hated. It was a pity that someone like you worked with this government, which has sidelined America and is a proxy for Israel. Best wishes."
Trump confirmed that Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has resigned from her post following her husband's diagnosis with a rare form of cancer.
Trump said that Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, Aaron Lukas, will serve as Acting Director of National Intelligence.
"Unfortunately, after having done a great job, Tulsi Gabbard will be leaving the Administration on June 30th. Her wonderful husband, Abraham, has been recently diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer, and she, rightfully, wants to be with him, bringing him back to good health as they currently fight a tough battle together. I have no doubt he will soon be better than ever. Tulsi has done an incredible job, and we will miss her. Her highly respected Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, Aaron Lukas, will serve as Acting Director of National Intelligence. President DONALD J. TRUMP," he said.
Gabbard shared her resignation letter and said she feels it's imperative she stays by her husband's side.
United States Senator Lindsey Graham appreciated Gabbard's service and said he will be praying for her.
Acting Attorney General Todd Balnche also thanked her for her sacrifices for the country.
Turning Point CEO Erika Kirk hoped for divine peace to surround Gabbard.
US Senator for California, Adam Schiff, noted how Gabbard politicised intelligence and dismantled critical agencies keeping Americans safe.
During her tenure as DNI, Gabbard undertook efforts aimed at restructuring the intelligence community, including reducing the size of the agency and dismantling diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programmes within the intelligence apparatus.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Heartbreaking news about her husband's cancer. Rare bone cancer is no joke. I hope the family gets all the support they need. As for her tenure, she certainly shook things up in the intelligence community. Whether that's good or bad depends on who you ask. Family first always.
I find it interesting how Iran praised her for speaking truth about them that Trump hated. Shows how complex US politics is. But honestly, nothing matters more than health – I hope her husband recovers fully. Also, dismantling DEI programs in intelligence seems controversial, but maybe she had her reasons. 🙏
True leadership is knowing when to step back. Tulsi Gabbard's decision to prioritize her husband's cancer treatment over a high-profile position is commendable. I don't follow US politics closely, but this shows character. Kudos to her for her service, and hoping for a speedy recovery for her husband. 👏
I think it's good that she's leaving to be with family. But I can't ignore that Adam Schiff criticized her for politicizing intelligence. That's a serious charge for someone in her position. The restructuring and cutting DEI programs might have been too radical. Still, hope her husband recovers well.
Vance calling her a patriot and a dear friend – that's genuine respect. The way the Trump administration has handled her exit with dignity is notable. Iran's message though is quite something – praising her while criticizing the government. Shows how geopolitics works in strange ways. Best wishes to the family.
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