U.S. National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard has raised significant concerns about the state of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), calling it "worse than expected" during her recent appearance on Fox News. Gabbard made the comments on March 6, 2025, as she addressed the organization's internal corruption and politicization she had encountered since taking office.
Before her confirmation on February 12, the CIA reportedly offered payouts to its entire workforce as part of efforts to sideline those opposing former President Donald Trump’s agenda. Gabbard stated, "I knew it was bad coming in. It’s worse than I thought in a lot of different ways." She emphasized the urgent need to eliminate the politicization within the intelligence community, advocating for the provision of unbiased intelligence to policymakers.
Gabbard elaborated on national security threats, citing the Biden administration's decision to release known or suspected terrorists back onto U.S. soil. She pointed out, “This is one form of politicization,” stressing how political correctness may compromise safety. According to the August 2024 report from the House Judiciary Committee, over 250 illegal migrants on the terrorist watchlist were encountered by Border Patrol between fiscal years 2021 and 2023, with around 99 released back to the U.S.
Since Gabbard took office, significant workforce changes within the CIA have transpired. Reports indicate the dismissal of multiple employees associated with the Biden administration, aligning with Gabbard's commitment to restoring integrity.
Further, Gabbard has taken decisive action by terminating over 100 intelligence officers from more than a dozen agencies due to inappropriate discussions on government chat platforms. Conservative commentator Christopher Rufo revealed these conversations, which included topics like polyamory and gender transition surgery.
Following these shocking revelations, Gabbard issued directives mandatorily revoking security clearances from participants engaged in those conversations. The National Security Agency has acknowledged awareness of these inappropriate discussions, assuring the public investigations are underway. They stated, "IC collaboration platforms are intended to drive mission outcomes. Potential misuse of these platforms by a small group of individuals does not represent the community. Investigations to address this misuse of government systems are underway."
Gabbard expressed serious concerns over the levels of mistrust and breaches of professional standards evident from the leaked chats. She stated, “So today’s action and holding these individuals accountable is just the beginning of what we’re seeing across the Trump administration, which is carrying out the mandate the American people gave him, clean house, root out the rot and corruption and weaponization and politicization.”
Her push to reform has been characterized by increased scrutiny and opposition, which she attributes to her independent views on various issues. Discontent surrounding her leadership surfaced within the intelligence community, as dissenting voices labeled her as "fervently anti-queer" and part of the "MAGA cult" within anonymous chat discussions.
These controversies raise broader dialogues about the values shaping contemporary intelligence practices, particularly as they relate to inclusivity and political ideology. Gabbard's leadership continues to encounter challenges as her approach brings to light deep-rooted concerns within the community.
Gabbard’s actions and public comments reflect her determination to realign national security priorities and enforce accountability among intelligence agencies. With her outspoken stance against perceived politicization, the incoming changes could establish a paradigm shift within the federal agency's culture.
Her firm commitment to accountability is poised to continue shaping the narrative within the intelligence community. Gabbard’s endeavor to keep the American public safe leads her to confront the existing narratives, insisting on transparency and professionalism. Challenges remain, but her administration is determined to uphold the integrity of the nation’s intelligence practices as she guides these pivotal reforms.