Tulsi Gabbard launches major cuts in US intelligence agencies

Thursday 21 August 2025 - 12:31

By: Sahili Aya

Tulsi Gabbard launches major cuts in US intelligence agencies

Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of US National Intelligence, announced on Wednesday a sweeping restructuring of the intelligence community, accusing it of “abuse of power” and “political manipulation.”

Gabbard, who oversees 18 national security agencies, declared that the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) will be reduced by more than 40% before the end of the 2025 fiscal year. The move, according to her, is aimed at saving taxpayers over $700 million annually. She did not specify whether the cuts would focus primarily on staff, budgets, or both.

“The ODNI has grown bloated and ineffective over the last two decades,” Gabbard said in an official statement. “There have been consistent abuses of power, leaks of classified information, and partisan interference. This must end if we are to serve the American people and uphold the Constitution.”

A former Democrat who aligned herself with Republican President Donald Trump, Gabbard has faced criticism from opponents who accuse her of being too close to Russia and the Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad. Her nomination in February was met with skepticism from Democrats in the Senate, particularly over her positions on the war in Ukraine.

The restructuring comes amid growing debates over the politicization of intelligence in Washington. Critics argue that Gabbard’s drastic measures could weaken US intelligence at a time of mounting global threats, while her supporters say the cuts will restore accountability and efficiency.