Sen. Todd Young (R-Ind.) told the nominee at one point that “it would befit you and be helpful for the way you’re perceived by members of the Intelligence Committee” to acknowledge that National Security Agency leaker Edward Snowden harmed national security.

Gabbard has put her life on the line in service to our nation, proudly represented her constituents in Congress, and is ready to continue her service as DNI.

President Donald Trump's contentious nomination of Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence cleared a major hurdle on Tuesday when a Senate committee backed her for confirmation despite doubts about her lack of experience and past statements seen as supporting U.

Tulsi Gabbard fought back against what she called “smears,” declaring she is nobody’s “puppet” before the Senate Intelligence Committee.

Young said he sought commitments from Gabbard to "advance our national security." Young had been under pressure to support Trump's pick.

“After extensive consideration of her nomination, I will support Tulsi Gabbard to be the Director of National Intelligence. As one of the principal authors of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 that established this coordinating position, I understand the critical role the DNI plays in the Intelligence Community.”

The Senate Intelligence Committee voted behind closed doors Tuesday to advance Gabbard's nomination to the full Senate for a vote.

Tulsi Gabbard's nomination to be President Donald Trump's director of national intelligence cleared a key Intelligence Committee vote on Tuesday.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard is one step closer to being confirmed as the Director of National Intelligence after Republicans on the Intelligence Committee unanimously backed her for the post. She will now head to the floor where little GOP opposition is expected,

Tulsi Gabbard's nomination to become director of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence will garner support from a key senator whose vote was in question.