Tulsi Gabbard discusses the politicization of intelligence, particularly regarding the Russiagate hoax, and her efforts to reform intelligence agencies.
Takeways• The Russiagate hoax was based on politicized intelligence, manipulated to undermine Trump's presidency.
• Transparency and accountability are crucial to prevent the weaponization of intelligence agencies.
• Cartels are designated as terrorist organizations to combat their violent activities and the fentanyl crisis.
Tulsi Gabbard explains how intelligence was manipulated to undermine Trump's presidency, particularly during the Russiagate investigation, and emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability within the intelligence community to prevent future abuses. She also addresses the designation of cartels as terrorist organizations and the ongoing efforts to combat fentanyl trafficking, as well as her perspective on foreign policy decisions, particularly concerning Iran.
Russiagate Origins
• 00:02:23 Gabbard explains how the Russiagate narrative originated with Hillary Clinton seeding the allegation of collusion between Trump and Russia during the 2016 campaign. The FBI then obtained illegal warrants through the FISA court to surveil Americans associated with Trump's campaign. Despite initial intelligence assessments indicating no Russian interference, the Obama administration allegedly tasked intelligence agencies to produce an assessment supporting the claim that Russia meddled in the election to help Trump.
Politicization of Intelligence
• 00:11:52 Gabbard highlights the trend of politicized intelligence, citing James Clapper's eagerness to create a narrative for war with Iraq as a prior example. She emphasizes that politicized intelligence threatens the integrity of the republic and undermines the voices of the people expressed through elections. According to Gabbard, the lack of accountability drives individuals to believe they can manipulate information and intelligence to control outcomes.
Cleaning Up Intelligence Agencies
• 00:22:06 Gabbard discusses her efforts to promote transparency and accountability within the intelligence community, referring documents to the Department of Justice. She stresses the need for vigilance to protect against abuses and highlights changes made within the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to focus on the mission and hold individuals accountable.
Democratic Party Shift
• 00:27:36 Gabbard reflects on the Democratic Party's transformation, noting it no longer represents its original values of fighting for the 'little guy,' protecting the environment, and standing up for free speech. This shift led her to leave the Democratic Party, as it has become unrecognizable compared to the party of JFK and Martin Luther King.
Cartels as Terrorist Organizations
• 00:35:17 Gabbard explains the decision to designate cartels as terrorist organizations was driven by the devastating effects of MS-13 and other cartels on American communities. This designation opens the door to using different authorities to protect the safety and security of the American people. The National Counterterrorism Center has expanded its focus to include counter-narcotics efforts and engage with local law enforcement in border states.