Tulsi Gabbard’s path to becoming Director of National Intelligence (DNI) strengthened on Monday when Republican Sen. Susan Collins of Maine declared her support. Collins, a key swing vote, emphasized Gabbard’s alignment with her vision of reducing the size of the DNI and her responses to concerns about Edward Snowden. Gabbard, a former Democratic congresswoman, has been a controversial figure due to her foreign policy stances and criticisms of intelligence oversight. Her nomination was initially unexpected but now appears poised for confirmation, pending Senate Intelligence Committee approval. Collins’ endorsement, combined with expected GOP support, positions Gabbard well. During her confirmation hearing, Gabbard criticized intelligence abuses, including FBI misuse of surveillance and the politicization of agencies, particularly around Hunter Biden’s laptop. Despite concerns from some Republicans, Gabbard’s nomination has gained momentum as a reformer within the intelligence community.