Former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, a Democrat from Hawaii, has endorsed Donald Trump for president, a significant change from her previous criticisms of him. Just five years ago, she called Trump “corrupt,” “unqualified to serve,” and even went as far as to label him “Saudi Arabia’s bitch.” Gabbard’s endorsement comes after her unsuccessful 2020 bid for the Democratic presidential nomination, during which she did not hold back in critiquing Trump’s performance in office.
In 2018, Gabbard criticized Trump for standing by Saudi Arabia despite U.S. intelligence linking Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. She called out Trump on Twitter, telling him that being Saudi Arabia’s “bitch” was not in line with an “America First” approach. Just months later, Gabbard supported the 2019 impeachment inquiry into Trump over allegations of trying to extort Ukraine for aid. She firmly stated that Trump was corrupt and unfit to serve as president and commander-in-chief.
During her 2020 presidential campaign, Gabbard continued to voice her displeasure with Trump’s decisions, including his deployment of U.S. troops to protect Saudi oil facilities. Gabbard accused Trump of essentially auctioning off American troops to the highest bidder, suggesting that he was unfit to lead the military. Despite her campaign failing to gain traction, Gabbard dropped out and endorsed Joe Biden for president. However, in 2022, she left the Democratic party, citing it as an “elitist cabal of warmongers.”
Following her departure from the Democratic party, Gabbard has become a paid contributor for Fox News and has made appearances on shows like Tucker Carlson. She has been in the spotlight for her increasing alignment with conservative viewpoints and her willingness to speak out against the Democratic establishment. Recently, Gabbard has been involved in helping to prepare Trump for the upcoming presidential debate on September 10th. Her endorsement of Trump has surprised many given her previous criticisms of him, but it reflects her evolving political stance and willingness to cross party lines.
Gabbard’s endorsement of Trump has sparked controversy and discussion within political circles. While some see it as a betrayal of her previous Democratic affiliations and values, others view it as a principled decision based on her belief in Trump’s approach to certain issues. Gabbard’s journey from a Democratic presidential candidate to a supporter of Trump showcases the complex and shifting nature of politics. Her willingness to break from traditional party lines and engage with a diverse range of viewpoints sets her apart as a political figure unafraid to challenge the status quo.
