Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) voted against the confirmation of Tulsi Gabbard as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI), a decision that has drawn significant attention and criticism given Gabbard’s past support for Sanders during the 2016 Democratic primaries. Gabbard, a former congresswoman from Hawaii, was confirmed in a narrow 52-48 vote, but Sanders’ opposition marked a notable departure from their previous camaraderie.
In 2016, Gabbard resigned from her role as vice chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) to endorse Sanders, citing her disagreement with the party’s more interventionist foreign policy stance. “The stakes are just too high,” she stated at the time, emphasizing the need for a leader who would avoid “wasteful” wars and instead promote peace and security for the American people. Her endorsement came amid a backdrop of controversy surrounding the DNC’s treatment of Sanders, which was later revealed in leaked emails showing favoritism towards Hillary Clinton’s campaign.
Despite their shared history, Sanders’ recent vote against Gabbard has elicited backlash, particularly from those who view it as a betrayal. Prominent journalist Glenn Greenwald criticized Sanders for his decision, labeling him an “opportunistic partisan coward.” Social media users echoed this sentiment, describing Sanders as “spineless” and a “pathetic, swamp politician.”
This tension comes at a time when both Gabbard and Sanders have faced scrutiny from establishment Democrats. Gabbard has been labeled a “Russian asset” by some within the party, a claim Sanders defended against in 2019, asserting her dedication to national service and her commitment to the country.
After their respective campaigns in 2020, Gabbard publicly reaffirmed her respect for Sanders, calling him a “friend” who has dedicated his life to advocating for justice and equality. However, the fallout from Sanders’ vote suggests a rift that may have lasting implications for their political relationship.
As the political landscape continues to shift, the dynamics between figures like Sanders and Gabbard highlight the ongoing struggles within the Democratic Party, particularly regarding foreign policy and party loyalty. Gabbard’s confirmation as DNI, despite the lack of support from Sanders, signals a significant moment in her political career, while also raising questions about the future of alliances within the party.