Tulsi Gabbard faces challenges in confirmation as US intelligence chief nominee

Tulsi Gabbard has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to be the director of National Intelligence. This nomination has raised concerns among lawmakers due to her past comments on Russia and her meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Gabbard's views on the Ukraine war and her ties to a controversial Hindu group may complicate her confirmation process. Critics, including outgoing Rep. Abigail Spanberger, have expressed doubts about her qualifications and experience in the intelligence community. The Senate, which will have a Republican majority, will need to confirm Gabbard along with other controversial Cabinet picks from Trump. Her nomination is part of a broader trend of surprising selections for key government positions.