The US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, who announced her resignation, is involved in a behind-the-scenes conflict with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), it became clear during a congressional hearing, Axios reported.
According to the media, “the office of the Director of Intelligence Gabbard has been involved in a behind-the-scenes conflict with the CIA for months, which came to light during a hearing before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Reform“. Meanwhile, the Washington Post emphasizes that there was “significant friction“ between the CIA and the director of intelligence during the current presidency of Donald Trump and Gabbard's resignation will likely strengthen the position of CIA Director John Ratcliffe.
CIA official James Erdman testified at a committee hearing on May 13. He spent a year on the Director's Initiative Group (DIG), a task force created by Gabbard that investigated and released documents on high-profile cases and exposed potential attempts to undermine administration policy. According to his written testimony, "the CIA obstructed lawful oversight of DIG activities and retaliated against DIG by improperly investigating members" of DIG. The whistleblower alleged that the CIA withheld documents and information, denying access to both DIG members and Gabbard herself. In addition, according to Erdman's testimony, the CIA "initiated investigations of DIG members and monitored their communications and computer activity."
Earlier, the US president confirmed that Gabbard would leave her post as Director of National Intelligence. He announced that Gabbard's first deputy, Aaron Lucas, would fill the vacant position. Gabbard explained her request to resign as necessary "so that she can fully support her husband as he begins his treatment." She also promised to ensure a "smooth and comprehensive" transition.
Meanwhile, Reuters reported, citing an unnamed source familiar with the matter, that Gabbard was forced to resign from the White House. Gabbard's dismissal was pushed in particular by Laura Loomer, a right-wing political activist close to the American leader and with an extremely controversial reputation. According to available information, Roger Stone, another prominent figure in the Republican Party close to the head of the US administration, has also advocated for Gabbard to remain in her post as Director of National Intelligence.
Gabbard is officially considered the coordinator of all 18 US intelligence agencies.