Tulsi Gabbard, President elect Donald Trump’s pick for the top US intelligence job, has strong support among the Indian Americans in Silicon Valley and many feel that she would emerge as an ally of the community in Washington DC if confirmed by the US Senate as director of national intelligence.
“Gabbard holds significant importance for the Indian American community in leadership roles within the US technology industry. Her historic rise as the first Hindu member of Congress has inspired countless Indian Americans, particularly in Silicon Valley, where her principles of innovation and resilience align with the ethos of the tech community. The immense interest from Silicon Valley stems from her strong anti-interventionist stance, advocacy for global cooperation, and her nuanced understanding of technology’s role in national security – particularly given that as the future director of national intelligence, she will lead efforts with cybersecurity, intelligence analysis and data analytics to bolster America’s defence,” says Rishi Kumar, a Silicon Valley tech executive and author, about the former Democratic Congresswoman from Hawaii. Kumar is a former elected official, executive board member of the California Democratic Party and Congressional candidate.
As director of national intelligence, Gabbard would likely engage with Silicon Valley in critical areas such as artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies, Kumar feels. “She would oversee policy areas including protecting critical infrastructure, and ensuring robust cybersecurity frameworks—topics that would leverage Silicon Valley technology. Her leadership could bridge gaps between the government and the private tech sector, fostering collaboration to address national security challenges,” he said.
Gabbard who was a candidate in the Democratic presidential primaries in 2020, but later quit the Democratic Party and joined the Republican Party in 2024, is also known for championing for the rights and representation of Hindus globally, earning strong support within the Hindu American community. “She proudly identifies with the Sanatana Dharma, the eternal spiritual philosophy and the Hindu faith. Rooted in principles of compassion, truth, humility, and service, her faith has profoundly shaped her values and approach to leadership. Sanatana Dharma emphasises unity amidst diversity, the interconnectedness of all beings, and the pursuit of dharma (righteousness) in daily life—ideals that resonate deeply with her public service and commitment to fostering peace and harmony globally. Gabbard’s dedication to these spiritual principles has inspired her to champion inclusivity, respect for all faiths, and the empowerment of marginalised communities,” Kumar felt.
Gabbard, who practices Hinduism and supported Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the International Yoga Day initiative, is seen as someone who understands the geopolitical issues that surround India. “Her role in the Trump administration could strengthen US-India ties, particularly in areas like defence, trade, and technology cooperation, further solidifying the partnership between the two democracies,” Kumar said.
Despite her nomination and support from Trump, several questions have been raised about Gabbard recently including allegations by critics that she is ‘compromised’ because of some of her foreign policy stands. “Her background check and confirmation process will undoubtedly be thorough, given the sensitivity of the role. However, her track record of public service, her military background, and her bipartisan support demonstrate her resilience in addressing unfounded accusations. Ultimately, her appointment could serve as a unifying force, leveraging her leadership to strengthen both national security and global cooperation,” Kumar felt.
Senator Bernie Sanders, who Gabbard endorsed for the 2016 presidential nomination, has spoken out in her defence and said that it is outrageous to suggest that she is a foreign asset, Kumar added.