Trump Maintains Full Confidence in DNI Gabbard Amid Counterterrorism Leak Scandal
President Donald Trump retains complete confidence in Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, despite the resignation of her top counterterrorism official amid accusations of prolific national security leaks. The controversy erupted after National Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent resigned earlier this week, protesting Trump's military strikes on Iran and claiming Iran posed no imminent threat to the United States.
Federal Investigations Target Leakers in Administration
Leavitt revealed that federal investigations have commenced to root out leakers within the government, emphasizing that anyone suspected or proven to leak information will be removed from their post. 'Anyone who has been suspected of leaking or is proven to be a leaker will not be welcome in this administration,' Leavitt stated during a Fox News interview with host Dana Perino. 'I know that for a fact because I've heard the President say it myself.' She added that ongoing investigations aim to hold individuals accountable, calling such actions unacceptable and intolerable.
Gabbard is scheduled to testify before Congress on Wednesday morning, addressing the fallout from Kent's resignation. In a post on X, Gabbard clarified that her team's role is to present intelligence to Trump, who then determines if a credible threat warrants U.S. action. 'As our Commander in Chief, he is responsible for determining what is and is not an imminent threat, and whether or not to take action he deems necessary to protect the safety and security of our troops, the American people and our country,' she wrote.
Kent's Resignation Sparks Political Backlash
Joe Kent's resignation and public statement marked an extraordinary move within the Trump administration, particularly as he is part of the populist 'America First' wing that rarely breaks from the President's positions. Trump allies, including former Deputy Chief of Staff Taylor Budowich, accused Kent of being a known leaker. Budowich wrote on X that Kent was 'a crazed egomaniac who was often at the center of national security leaks' and spent his time undermining the chain of command, suggesting his resignation was a preemptive move to avoid being fired.
During an Oval Office press conference, Trump expressed mixed feelings about Kent, stating he liked him but was glad he resigned over the Iran conflict. 'When I read his statement I realized that it's a good thing that he's out because he said that Iran was not a threat. Iran was a threat – every country realized what a threat Iran was,' Trump said. He warned that without the recent strikes on Iran, conducted in collaboration with Israel, there could have been a 'nuclear holocaust,' and emphasized that officials who doubt Iran's threat are not wanted in his administration.
The scandal highlights ongoing tensions within the federal government over national security protocols and policy disagreements, with Gabbard's testimony expected to shed further light on intelligence assessments and the administration's response to leaks.
