1. United States
2. Ill.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to take immediate action regarding the serious allegations against National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard. A U.S. intelligence official filed a whistleblower complaint in May alleging wrongdoing by Gabbard, yet Congress was kept in the dark about this complaint until November. This six-month delay represents a potential violation of whistleblower protection laws and congressional oversight authority. According to the whistleblower's attorney, Andrew Bakaj, Gabbard engaged in nearly eight months of allegedly illegal actions to protect herself by preventing the complaint from reaching Congress. Former intelligence officials confirm that taking several months to transmit a whistleblower complaint is highly unusual, as spy agencies typically resolve security concerns in days or weeks, not half a year. This delay occurred despite Gabbard's sworn testimony during her confirmation hearing that she would protect whistleblowers, safeguard their anonymity, and ensure timely, direct access to Congress. Bakaj has accused Gabbard of jeopardizing Congress's legally mandated oversight of the U.S. Intelligence Community, including agency covert operations. Senate Intelligence Committee Vice Chair Mark Warner has already stated his expectation that Gabbard abide by her legal obligations to protect government whistleblowers. The situation is further complicated by claims that the complaint contains attorney-client privileged information and possible executive privilege material, raising questions about what Gabbard may be attempting to conceal. I urge you to support a full congressional investigation into Gabbard's handling of this whistleblower complaint and her fitness to serve as Director of National Intelligence. The integrity of our intelligence oversight system depends on officials who respect the law and congressional authority. If these allegations prove credible, I ask that you support impeachment proceedings and removal from office. Our national security cannot be entrusted to someone who allegedly obstructs legitimate whistleblower complaints and congressional oversight.