Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence, announced her resignation following her husband’s cancer diagnosis. Her decision was met with mixed reactions from Democrats and media pundits.
Speaking on “Fox & Friends Weekend,” Tony Kinnett, from The Daily Signal, criticized the political focus from some on social media. He argued that it revealed the character of those individuals.
Gabbard’s resignation is effective June 30. In her resignation letter, she expressed gratitude for her role but mentioned her husband’s recent diagnosis with a rare bone cancer.
Some media figures and Democrats criticized Gabbard’s decision. On CNN, former Deputy DNI Beth Sanner made a comment implying Gabbard was not welcome back. Likewise, Sen. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., commented that Gabbard’s resignation was the only positive contribution she made to national security.
Kinnett condemned these remarks, suggesting they reflect a troubling shift in political commentary. He emphasized the importance of family, commending Gabbard for prioritizing her husband.
Tulsi Gabbard, a U.S. Army Reserve officer and combat veteran, took office in February 2025. She was previously a longtime Democrat in Congress before becoming an independent and then joining the Republican Party.
In her letter, Gabbard highlighted her husband’s supportive role during their marriage and explained her inability to leave him battling cancer alone.
Former President Trump praised her on Truth Social, noting her dedication and expressing confidence in her husband’s recovery.