“Tulsi's history of irresponsibly promoting misinformation and giving comfort to some of America's most aggressive adversaries is counter to the values of the intelligence community. If confirmed, she'll have a steep hill to climb to earn the trust and respect of the community,” the official told Defense One.

Gabbard, an Army Reserve officer whose antiwar views are seen as sympathetic to Moscow, is considered an unconventional choice to lead U.S. spy agencies.

Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard was announced as President-elect Donald Trump‘s pick for director of National Intelligence, adding to a slate of controversial picks for his Cabinet revealed this week.