This was shocking to hear from Schiff.
Sen. Adam Schiff responded Friday to the resignation of Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, delivering sharp criticism of her leadership while acknowledging the personal circumstances behind her departure.
Gabbard announced she would step down from her position in the Trump administration, triggering immediate reactions across Washington and reigniting debate over the future of the nation’s intelligence agencies.
In a statement posted on X, Schiff argued that Gabbard’s resignation could ultimately benefit the country’s national security apparatus.
While expressing sympathy regarding her family situation, Schiff accused the outgoing intelligence chief of politicizing intelligence operations and damaging public trust in federal agencies during her time in office.
“She dismantled critical agencies keeping Americans safe,” Schiff wrote, while also accusing her of advancing disputed election-related investigations.
Controversies Followed Gabbard Throughout Her Tenure
Gabbard’s time as Director of National Intelligence drew significant attention from both supporters and critics.
Backers praised her willingness to challenge long-standing political and intelligence establishment narratives, while opponents questioned several high-profile decisions and public statements made during her tenure.
One of the biggest controversies involved Gabbard’s appearance during an FBI raid connected to a Georgia election office investigation in Fulton County. At the time, she said she was there at the request of President Trump.
She also sparked political debate after alleging that officials in the Obama administration exaggerated or manipulated information related to Russian interference claims tied to the 2016 presidential election.
In addition, Gabbard publicly accused Schiff and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of helping fuel political controversy that contributed to President Trump’s first impeachment proceedings.
Schiff Repeats Longstanding Concerns
Schiff had opposed Gabbard’s nomination from the beginning, arguing during her confirmation hearings that the role of Director of National Intelligence requires extensive experience, sound judgment, and bipartisan credibility.
At the time, he questioned whether she possessed the qualifications necessary to oversee America’s intelligence community during a period of heightened global tensions.
His comments Friday reflected many of those same concerns, as he warned against allowing political loyalty to outweigh national security priorities inside federal intelligence agencies.
Growing Turnover Inside Trump Administration
Gabbard’s resignation is the latest in a series of high-profile departures within President Trump’s administration.
Former counterterrorism official Joe Kent previously stepped down following reported disagreements involving U.S. policy toward Iran.
She also joins several former Cabinet officials who have exited the administration, including Pam Bondi, Kristi Noem, and Lori Chavez-DeRemer.
The leadership shake-up is expected to intensify political debate in Washington over intelligence oversight, national security policy, and the direction of the Trump administration moving forward.
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