Critics of Gabbard are willing to change their minds if she would clarify a few of her past statements, especially regarding foreign dictators. From Vladimir Putin to Bashar al-Assad, she appears to have taken their side in many recent foreign conflicts that posed a threat to US national security. The IC is of paramount importance in defending America and its allies, which is why Gabbard must prove capable of putting them first and not giving an inch to authoritarians abroad.
Gabbard is a true, nonpartisan patriot, which is why neocons in both parties are determined to block her confirmation. Establishment politicians, military leaders, and spies enjoy starting unnecessary wars — from the Middle East to Russia — and they fear Gabbard’s potential to hold them accountable. If Gabbard is confirmed, the world may have a chance to become more peaceful, and Americans the chance not to be spied on.