History of Tulsi Gabbard in Timeline
Tulsi Gabbard is an American politician and military officer. She served as the U.S. Representative for Hawaii's 2nd congressional district from 2013 to 2021. Currently, she holds the rank of lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve and serves as the 8th director of national intelligence since 2025. Gabbard was formerly a Democrat, and in 2024 joined the Republican Party. Prior to her congressional service, she was the youngest state legislator in Hawaii from 2002 to 2004.
1915: Ottoman Empire Attempted to Cleanse Armenian and Christian Populations
In 1915, the Ottoman Empire attempted to cleanse itself of the Armenian and Christian populations, with the US becoming home to many survivors.
April 12, 1981: Tulsi Gabbard Born
On April 12, 1981, Tulsi Gabbard was born. She is an American politician and military officer.
1983: Family Moved Back to Hawaii
In 1983, when Gabbard was two years old, her family moved back to Hawaii.
1988: Gabbard's parents owned The Natural Deli
From 1988 to 1992, Gabbard's parents owned The Natural Deli in Moiliili, Hawaii.
1992: Gabbard's parents stopped owning The Natural Deli
From 1988 to 1992, Gabbard's parents owned The Natural Deli in Moiliili, Hawaii.
1998: Support for Father's Campaign Against Gay Marriage
In 1998, at age 17, Tulsi Gabbard supported her father's campaign to amend the Constitution of Hawaii to reserve marriage to opposite-sex couples.
2002: Youngest State Legislator in Hawaii
From 2002 to 2004, Tulsi Gabbard was the youngest state legislator in Hawaii.
2002: Elected to Hawaii State Legislature
In 2002, Gabbard dropped out of Leeward Community College to run successfully for election to the Hawaii state legislature, becoming the youngest woman ever elected as a U.S. state representative.
2002: Won Election to Hawaii House of Representatives
In 2002, Gabbard won the general election with 60.7% of the vote, defeating Republican Alfonso Jimenez. At the age of 21, Gabbard became the youngest legislator ever elected in Hawaii's history.
2002: Gabbard Marries Eduardo Tamayo
In 2002, at the age of 21, Tulsi Gabbard married Eduardo Tamayo.
April 2003: Enlisted in the Hawaii Army National Guard
In April 2003, while serving in the Hawaii State Legislature, Gabbard enlisted in the Hawaii Army National Guard.
2003: Joined Hawaii Army National Guard
In 2003, Gabbard joined the Hawaii Army National Guard.
July 2004: Deployed to Iraq
In July 2004, Gabbard was deployed for a 12-month tour in Iraq, serving as a specialist.
August 2004: Announced She Would Not Campaign For Re-Election
In August 2004, Gabbard announced that she would not campaign for a second term due to her Army National Guard service in Iraq.
2004: Youngest State Legislator in Hawaii
From 2002 to 2004, Tulsi Gabbard was the youngest state legislator in Hawaii.
2004: Deployed to Iraq
From 2004 to 2005, Gabbard was deployed to Iraq where she served as a specialist with the medical unit, and received the Combat Medical Badge.
2005: Served in Iraq
From 2004 to 2005, Gabbard was deployed to Iraq where she served as a specialist with the medical unit, and received the Combat Medical Badge.
2005: Gabbard Deployed to Iraq
From 2004 to 2005, Tulsi Gabbard was deployed to Iraq, serving with the National Guard.
2005: Received Combat Medical Badge
In 2005, Gabbard received a Combat Medical Badge for "participation in combat operations under enemy hostile fire in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom III."
2006: Gabbard Divorces Eduardo Tamayo
In 2006, Tulsi Gabbard divorced Eduardo Tamayo, citing the stresses war places on military spouses and families.
March 2007: Graduated from Accelerated Officer Candidate School
In March 2007, Gabbard graduated from the Accelerated Officer Candidate School at the Alabama Military Academy at the top of her class.
2007: Completed Officer Training Program
In 2007, Gabbard completed the officer training program at the Alabama Military Academy.
2007: Nancy Pelosi visit to Syria
Tulsi Gabbard's visit to Syria was the first by a U.S. lawmaker since Nancy Pelosi in 2007.
2008: Stationed in Kuwait
From 2008 to 2009, Gabbard was stationed in Kuwait as an Army Military Police platoon leader.
2009: Ran for a Seat on the Honolulu City Council
After returning home from her second deployment to the Middle East in 2009, Gabbard ran for a seat on the Honolulu City Council.
2009: Stationed in Kuwait
From 2008 to 2009, Gabbard was stationed in Kuwait as an Army Military Police platoon leader.
2009: Graduated from Hawaii Pacific University
In 2009, Gabbard graduated from Hawaii Pacific University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in international business.
September 2010: Finished First in Honolulu City Council Primary
In the 10-candidate nonpartisan open primary in September 2010, Gabbard finished first with 26.8% of the vote for a seat on the Honolulu City Council.
May 2011: Declared Candidacy for U.S. House Seat
In May 2011, Gabbard declared her candidacy for the open House seat for Hawaii's 2nd congressional district.
2011: Characterization of U.S. Involvement in Syria
In 2018, Gabbard characterized the U.S. as waging a regime change war in Syria since 2011.
August 16, 2012: Resigned from Honolulu City Council
On August 16, 2012, Gabbard resigned from the Honolulu City Council to focus on her congressional campaign.
December 2012: Applied for Appointment to U.S. Senate Seat
In December 2012, Gabbard applied for appointment to the U.S. Senate seat vacated by the death of Daniel Inouye.
2012: Elected to U.S. House of Representatives
In 2012, Gabbard was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Hawaii's 2nd congressional district. She became the first Samoan American and Hindu American to serve in the U.S. Congress.
2012: Apology for Anti-Gay Advocacy
In 2012, Tulsi Gabbard apologized for her "anti-gay advocacy" and pledged to "fight for the repeal" of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA).
2012: Spoke at Democratic National Convention and Elected to Congress
In 2012, as the Democratic nominee, Gabbard spoke at the 2012 Democratic National Convention. In the general election, she was elected to Congress, becoming the first voting Samoan American and first Hindu member of Congress.
January 22, 2013: Elected as Vice Chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC)
On January 22, 2013, Tulsi Gabbard was unanimously elected as a vice chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC).
March 2013: Introduced the Helping Heroes Fly Act
In March 2013, Gabbard introduced the Helping Heroes Fly Act to expedite airport security screening for severely wounded veterans.
June 2013: Cosponsor of DOMA Repeal Legislation
In June 2013, Tulsi Gabbard was an initial cosponsor of legislation aimed at repealing the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA).
November 25, 2013: John F. Kennedy New Frontier Award
On November 25, 2013, Tulsi Gabbard received the John F. Kennedy New Frontier Award at a ceremony at the Institute of Politics at Harvard's John F. Kennedy School of Government for her efforts on behalf of veterans.
2013: Criticism of Obama's Refusal to Label Islamic Extremism
Between 2013 and 2017, Tulsi Gabbard criticized President Obama for not referring to the Islamic State's beliefs and terrorism as "Islamic extremism" or "radical Islam" during appearances on Fox News.
2013: Support for Easier Path to Citizenship
Between 2013 and 2021, Tulsi Gabbard expressed support for an easier path to citizenship for immigrants without legal status, increasing skilled immigration, and granting work visas to immigrants.
2013: Vice-Chair of Democratic National Committee
From 2013 to 2016, she served as vice-chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) but resigned to endorse Bernie Sanders for the 2016 Democratic presidential nomination.
2013: Served as U.S. Representative for Hawaii
From 2013 to 2021, Tulsi Gabbard served as U.S. representative for Hawaii's 2nd congressional district.
2013: Signing of Amicus Brief Supporting Gay Marriage
In 2013, Tulsi Gabbard signed an amicus brief supporting gay marriage, signaling a shift from her earlier views.
2013: Gabbard Takes Oath of Office with Bhagavad Gita
In 2013, Tulsi Gabbard took the oath of office using her personal copy of the Bhagavad Gita, highlighting her Hindu faith.
March 20, 2014: Elle's "Women in Washington Power List"
On March 20, 2014, Elle magazine honored Tulsi Gabbard at the Italian Embassy in the United States during its annual "Women in Washington Power List".
2014: Reelected to Congress
In 2014, Gabbard was reelected to the U.S. House of Representatives, defeating Kawika Crowley again.
2014: Gabbard Presents Bhagavad Gita to Indian Prime Minister Modi
In 2014, as a Congresswoman, Tulsi Gabbard presented a copy of the Bhagavad Gita to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to the United States.
February 26, 2015: National Association of Counties County Alumni Award
On February 26, 2015, Tulsi Gabbard received the National Association of Counties County Alumni Award for her "steadfast commitment to the nation's counties".
July 15, 2015: Friend of the National Parks Award
On July 15, 2015, Tulsi Gabbard received the Friend of the National Parks Award from the National Parks Conservation Association.
September 2015: Criticized DNC Chair's Debate Limits
In September 2015, Tulsi Gabbard criticized DNC chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz's decision to limit the number of debates in the 2016 Democratic primary.
October 12, 2015: Promoted to Major
On October 12, 2015, Tulsi Gabbard was promoted from the rank of captain to major at a ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.
October 2015: Asked Not to Attend Debate
Following her criticism, Tulsi Gabbard was reportedly asked not to attend the October 2015 debate in Las Vegas.
November 2015: Introduced Talia's Law
In November 2015, Gabbard introduced Talia's Law, aimed at preventing child abuse and neglect on military bases.
2015: Criticism of Obama Administration on Islamic Extremists
In 2015, Tulsi Gabbard criticized the Obama administration for "refusing" to say that the "real enemy" of the United States is Islamic extremists.
2015: Gabbard Marries Abraham Williams
In 2015, Tulsi Gabbard married Abraham Williams in a traditional Vedic Hindu wedding.
2015: Meeting with Egyptian Dictator al-Sisi and Subsequent Criticism
In 2015, Tulsi Gabbard met with Egyptian dictator 'Abd al-Fattah al-Sisi in Cairo and commended his "great courage and leadership" against "Islamist ideology", which led to widespread criticism due to Sisi's human rights record.
2015: Support for Increased Border Security and Refugee Vetting
In 2015, Tulsi Gabbard, along with 47 other Democrats, supported increased border security and voted with Republicans for vetting of Iraqi and Syrian refugees. She also called for halting the visa waiver program after mass numbers of Syrian immigrants entered Germany, until the threat of terrorist attacks was resolved.
2015: Became a Major with Hawaii Army National Guard
In 2015, while also serving in Congress, Gabbard became a major with the Hawaii Army National Guard.
February 2016: Congress Passed Talia's Law
In February 2016, Congress passed Talia's Law, aimed at preventing child abuse and neglect on military bases.
February 28, 2016: Resigned as DNC Vice Chair and Endorsed Bernie Sanders
On February 28, 2016, Tulsi Gabbard resigned as DNC vice chair to endorse Bernie Sanders, later appearing on Meet the Press to discuss her resignation.
December 2016: Talia's Law Signed into Law
In December 2016, Talia's Law, aimed at preventing child abuse and neglect on military bases, was signed into law.
December 2016: Bill Awarding Congressional Gold Medal Signed into Law
In December 2016, a bill co-sponsored by Gabbard and Senator Hirono to award the Congressional Gold Medal to Filipino and Filipino American veterans of World War II was signed into law by President Obama.
2016: Description as Hawk and Dove
During an interview with the West Hawaii Today newspaper in 2016, Gabbard described herself as a hawk "when it comes to the war against terrorists", but a dove "when it comes to counterproductive wars of regime change".
2016: Sanders's Running Mate for Write-in Votes in California
During the 2016 election, Tulsi Gabbard was listed as Bernie Sanders's running mate for write-in votes in California.
2016: Resigned from DNC to endorse Bernie Sanders
From 2013 to 2016, she served as vice-chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) but resigned to endorse Bernie Sanders for the 2016 Democratic presidential nomination.
2016: Criticism of DNC
In 2016, Gabbard criticized DNC chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz's decision to limit the number of debates in the 2016 Democratic primary.
2016: Reelected to Congress
In 2016, Gabbard was reelected to the U.S. House of Representatives, defeating Republican Angela Kaaihue.
2016: Support for Standing Rock Sioux Tribe
In 2016, Tulsi Gabbard co-signed a letter supporting the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe against the Dakota Access Pipeline construction, urging the Obama administration to address tribal concerns.
2016: Gabbard Supports Diwali Commemorative Stamp
In 2016, Tulsi Gabbard supported the campaign by Hindu Americans for a Diwali commemorative stamp in the United States, emphasizing the values of righteousness associated with the festival.
2016: Opposition to GMO-Labeling Bill
In 2016, Tulsi Gabbard voted against a GMO-labeling bill, deeming it too weak, and supported clear GMO labeling.
2016: Hillary Clinton Accusation
In October 2019, Hillary Clinton suggested that Tulsi Gabbard was a "Russian asset," leading to widespread defense of Gabbard and condemnation of Clinton's remarks. Gabbard responded by calling Clinton the "queen of warmongers."
April 2017: Gabbard Skeptical of Assad's Responsibility in Chemical Attack
In April 2017, Tulsi Gabbard stated she would denounce Assad as a war criminal if an independent investigation found him responsible for the Khan Shaykhun chemical attack, but expressed skepticism, wanting clear evidence presented to Congress, drawing parallels to the Iraq War. She supported UN efforts to collect evidence for a successful prosecution at the International Criminal Court.
2017: Criticism of Obama's Refusal to Label Islamic Extremism
Between 2013 and 2017, Tulsi Gabbard criticized President Obama for not referring to the Islamic State's beliefs and terrorism as "Islamic extremism" or "radical Islam" during appearances on Fox News.
2017: Statement on Syrian Rebels
Following her 2017 visit to Syria, Gabbard wrote, "There is no difference between "moderate" rebels and al-Qaeda (al-Nusra) or ISIS — they are all the same. This is a war between terrorists under the command of groups like ISIS and al-Qaeda and the Syrian government."
2017: Syria Trip
In 2017, Gabbard clarified the details of her 2017 Syria trip with former Congressman Dennis Kucinich.
2017: Gabbard Skeptical of U.S. Military Action in Syria
In 2017, Gabbard expressed skepticism about incidents in Syria that were used as an excuse to launch a U.S. military attack, emphasizing the need for clear evidence before taking military action.
2017: Gabbard Visits Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh
In 2017, Gabbard visited Armenia and the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh as part of a U.S. lawmaker delegation, leading to her being blacklisted by Azerbaijan.
2017: Endorsed Keith Ellison for DNC Chair
In 2017, Tulsi Gabbard endorsed Keith Ellison for DNC chair.
2017: Stop Arming Terrorists Act Introduced
In 2017, Tulsi Gabbard introduced the Stop Arming Terrorists Act which became law December 20, 2019.
2017: Introduced the OFF Act
In 2017, she introduced the Off Fossil Fuels (OFF) Act, which aimed for a transition to 100% clean energy by 2035.
September 2018: Co-sponsored the No More Presidential Wars Act
In September 2018, Gabbard and Republican Representative Walter Jones co-sponsored the No More Presidential Wars Act to reaffirm Congress's authority over war declarations.
September 30, 2018: Ho'ola Na Pua Advocacy Award
On September 30, 2018, Tulsi Gabbard received the Ho'ola Na Pua Advocacy Award for "her dedication to serving and empowering human trafficking survivors in Hawaii" at their annual Pearl Gala.
October 16, 2018: Hawaii Pacific University's 2018 Paul T. C. Loo Distinguished Alumni
On October 16, 2018, Tulsi Gabbard was honored as Hawaii Pacific University's 2018 Paul T. C. Loo Distinguished Alumni.
2018: Characterization of U.S. Involvement in Syria
In 2018, Gabbard characterized the U.S. as waging a regime change war in Syria since 2011.
2018: Amendment to Improve Protective Equipment for Civil Defense Agencies Near Volcanic Activity
In 2018, Tulsi Gabbard successfully passed an amendment to improve protective equipment for civil defense agencies near volcanic activity.
2018: Introduced the Securing America's Election Act
In 2018, she introduced the Securing America's Election Act, requiring all voting districts to use paper ballots to ensure an auditable paper trail.
February 2019: Launched 2020 Presidential Campaign
In February 2019, Tulsi Gabbard officially launched her 2020 presidential campaign.
February 2019: Reports of Gabbard's Skepticism Resurface
In February 2019, reports resurfaced about Tulsi Gabbard's skepticism regarding Assad's regime being behind a gas attack. These reports appeared during her presidential campaign and after her nomination for DNI.
March 10, 2019: Gabbard Clarifies Stance on Chemical Weapons in Syria
On March 10, 2019, during a CNN Townhall, Tulsi Gabbard clarified her stance on the use of chemical weapons in Syria, stating that both the Syrian government and terrorist groups had used them. She explained that her skepticism in 2017 was regarding incidents used to justify a U.S. military attack.
July 2019: Visited Puerto Rico and Joined Protests
In July 2019, Tulsi Gabbard was the only 2020 presidential candidate to visit Puerto Rico and join protests urging Governor Ricardo Rosselló to resign.
August 2019: Comparison of Assad to Other Dictators
In August 2019, Tulsi Gabbard described Assad as "a brutal dictator. Just like Saddam Hussein. Just like Gadhafi in Libya." and emphasized her opposition to "wasteful regime-change wars."
August 2019: Tulsi 2020 Campaign Releases Report on Chemical Attacks in Syria
In August 2019, Tulsi Gabbard's 2020 presidential campaign published a compilation of analyses on chemical attacks in Syria, noting evidence of chemical weapon use by both sides but expressing skepticism about the Khan Shaykhun and Douma attacks. The report raised concerns about reliance on social media and unverified sources for military actions.
September 2019: Media Coverage of Presidential Campaign
In September 2019, media coverage of Tulsi Gabbard's presidential campaign was summarized as being heavily negative, with accusations of Russian ties and unfair dismissal.
October 2019: Media Attacks and McCarthyism Accusations
Also in October 2019, James Carden of The Nation wrote that "McCarthyism had gone mainstream" due to media attacks against Gabbard.
October 2019: Hillary Clinton's "Russian Asset" Accusation
In October 2019, Hillary Clinton suggested that Tulsi Gabbard was a "Russian asset," leading to widespread defense of Gabbard and condemnation of Clinton's remarks. Gabbard responded by calling Clinton the "queen of warmongers."
October 2019: Qualified for Fourth Presidential Debate
In October 2019, Tulsi Gabbard qualified for the fourth presidential debate in Ohio.
October 25, 2019: Announced She Would Not Seek Reelection
On October 25, 2019, Gabbard announced she would not seek reelection in 2020, citing her presidential campaign.
December 2019: Saturday Night Live Parodies
After the November and December 2019 debates, Saturday Night Live's parodies of the debates portrayed Tulsi Gabbard as the villain.
December 2019: Missed 85% of Votes but Voted "Present" on Impeachment Articles
Between October and December 2019, Gabbard missed 85% of votes but cast a "present" vote on both articles of impeachment in the first impeachment of Donald Trump.
December 2019: Vote of "Present" on Trump Impeachment
In December 2019, Tulsi Gabbard voted "present" during the House of Representatives' impeachment vote against President Trump, citing The Federalist Papers and protesting what she called a "political zero-sum game."
December 20, 2019: Stop Arming Terrorists Act Becomes Law
On December 20, 2019, the Stop Arming Terrorists Act that she introduced in 2017 became law as part of National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020, to prohibit the Department of Defense from knowingly providing weapons or support to Al Qaeda or affiliated terrorist groups.
2019: Apology for Past Anti-Gay Views During Presidential Campaign
After launching her presidential campaign in 2019, Tulsi Gabbard apologized for her past anti-gay views, attributing her changed perspective to her military experiences with LGBTQ service members.
2019: Gabbard Affirms Viewing Putin as a U.S. Adversary
In 2019, Tulsi Gabbard affirmed on MSNBC's Morning Joe that she views Putin as a U.S. adversary.
2019: Gabbard Co-Sponsors Armenian Genocide Resolution
In 2019, Tulsi Gabbard co-sponsored the Armenian Genocide Resolution legislation, aiming to lock in official US recognition and permanent remembrance of the Armenian genocide.
2019: Amendment on Runit Dome Safety
In 2019, Tulsi Gabbard successfully passed an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act requiring the Department of Energy to reexamine the safety of the leaking Runit Dome nuclear waste site in the Marshall Islands.
January 2020: Call for Drug Legalization and Regulation
In January 2020, Tulsi Gabbard advocated for the legalization and regulation of all drugs, drawing inspiration from Portugal's decriminalization model.
January 2020: Defamation Lawsuit Against Hillary Clinton
In January 2020, Tulsi Gabbard filed a legal defamation lawsuit against Hillary Clinton over the 'Russian asset' assertion, but dropped it five months later.
March 3, 2020: Earned Delegates in American Samoa
On March 3, 2020, Tulsi Gabbard earned two delegates in American Samoa, becoming the second woman of color and first Asian-American and Pacific-Islander presidential candidate to earn primary delegates.
March 2020: Resumed Regular Attendance After Suspending Presidential Campaign
After suspending her presidential campaign in March 2020, Gabbard resumed regular attendance in Congress.
March 2020: Dropped out of Presidential Campaign and endorsed Joe Biden
In March 2020, Gabbard dropped out of her 2020 presidential campaign and endorsed Joe Biden.
March 19, 2020: Dropped Out of 2020 Election and Endorsed Joe Biden
On March 19, 2020, Tulsi Gabbard dropped out of the 2020 election and endorsed former vice president Joe Biden.
June 2020: Introduction of CBD Amendment to NDAA
In June 2020, Tulsi Gabbard proposed an amendment to the House version of the 2021 NDAA to allow Armed Services members to use CBD and hemp products. It was approved 336 to 71 as a package, although House leaders did not fight for its inclusion in the final bill.
June 2020: Transferred to the 351st Civil Affairs Command
In June 2020, Tulsi Gabbard transferred to the 351st Civil Affairs Command, a California-based United States Army Reserve unit.
July 2020: Met with the Family of Vanessa Guillén
In July 2020, Gabbard met with the family of Vanessa Guillén, a U.S. Army soldier and victim of military sexual harassment, and called for reforms to address military sexual harassment.
August 2020: Advocated for Jennifer Smith
In August 2020, Gabbard advocated for Jennifer Smith, a Hawaii Department of Health epidemiologist who reported issues with the state's COVID-19 contact tracing program.
September 2020: Converted Presidential Campaign Committee and Criticized Netflix's "Cuties"
In September 2020, Gabbard converted her presidential campaign committee, Tulsi Now, into Tulsi Aloha, a leadership PAC. That same month, she criticized Netflix over the film Cuties, arguing that it contributed to the exploitation of children.
October 2020: Introduced Bills Calling for Dropping Charges Against Snowden and Assange
In October 2020, Gabbard and Representative Matt Gaetz introduced a bill calling for the U.S. to drop criminal charges against Edward Snowden. She also introduced a similar bill with Representative Thomas Massie advocating for Julian Assange's release from prison in the United Kingdom.
November 2020: Jennifer Smith Reinstated
In August 2020, Gabbard advocated for Jennifer Smith, a Hawaii Department of Health epidemiologist who reported issues with the state's COVID-19 contact tracing program. Gabbard continued to support her until she was reinstated in November 2020.
2020: Gabbard Proposes Cooperative Relationship with China During Presidential Campaign
During her 2020 presidential campaign, Tulsi Gabbard advocated for a cooperative relationship with China to address global challenges and criticized Trump's trade war as volatile and potentially leading to conflict.
2020: Transferred to U.S. Army Reserve
In 2020, Gabbard transferred to the U.S. Army Reserve.
2020: Gabbard Accuses Turkey of Inciting Conflict Between Armenia and Azerbaijan
In 2020, Tulsi Gabbard accused Turkey of encouraging the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh and urged the US to demand an end to Azerbaijan's attacks and Turkey's involvement.
2020: Introduction of "Protect Women's Sports Act"
In 2020, Tulsi Gabbard and Republican U.S. representative Markwayne Mullin introduced the "Protect Women's Sports Act," defining Title IX protections based on biological sex, leading to criticism from LGBTQ organizations.
2020: Criticism of Soleimani Airstrike
In 2020, Tulsi Gabbard criticized the U.S. military's Baghdad International Airport airstrike that killed Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, calling it an act of war without congressional authorization.
2020: Presenter at Island Music Awards 2020
In 2020, Tulsi Gabbard was a presenter at iHeartRadio Honolulu's virtual festival, Island Music Awards 2020.
2020: Most Frequently Googled Candidate After Debates and Criticism of Kamala Harris
In 2020, Tulsi Gabbard was the most frequently Googled candidate after the first, second, and fourth 2020 Democratic primary debates. During the second debate, Gabbard criticized Kamala Harris's record as attorney general of California.
2020: Publication of "Reports on Chemical Attacks in Syria"
In 2020, Tulsi Gabbard's presidential campaign published "Reports on Chemical Attacks in Syria", a document that was criticized for factual errors.
2020: Shift to Conservative Positions and Transgender Sports Ban Bill
In 2020, Tulsi Gabbard, during her Democratic presidential primary, displayed moderate stances, but afterwards shifted towards conservative positions on cultural issues. In 2020, she introduced a bill to ban trans-women from female sports.
2020: Presidential Campaign
In February 2019, Tulsi Gabbard officially launched her 2020 presidential campaign.
2020: Stop Arming Terrorists Act Becomes Law
On December 20, 2019, the Stop Arming Terrorists Act that she introduced in 2017 became law as part of National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020, to prohibit the Department of Defense from knowingly providing weapons or support to Al Qaeda or affiliated terrorist groups.
2020: Mentioned as Potential Presidential Candidate
Shortly after the 2016 election, Tulsi Gabbard was mentioned as a potential 2020 presidential candidate.
January 2021: Launched Podcast and Criticized Political Figures
In January 2021, Tulsi Gabbard launched her own podcast, called This is Tulsi Gabbard. She also made several appearances on Fox News programs, criticizing figures such as Nancy Pelosi and Adam Schiff.
July 4, 2021: Promoted to Lieutenant Colonel
On July 4, 2021, Tulsi Gabbard was promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel, while she was deployed to the Horn of Africa.
November 2021: Celebrated Glenn Youngkin's Victory in Virginia Gubernatorial Election
In November 2021, Tulsi Gabbard celebrated the victory of Republican candidate Glenn Youngkin in the Virginia Gubernatorial election.
2021: Departure from Congress
After her departure from Congress in 2021, Gabbard took more conservative positions on issues such as abortion, foreign policy, LGBTQ rights, and border security.
2021: Support for Easier Path to Citizenship
Between 2013 and 2021, Tulsi Gabbard expressed support for an easier path to citizenship for immigrants without legal status, increasing skilled immigration, and granting work visas to immigrants.
2021: Promoted to Lieutenant Colonel
In 2021, Gabbard was promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve.
2021: Became Lieutenant Colonel in U.S. Army Reserve
In 2021, Tulsi Gabbard held the rank of lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve.
2021: NDAA Amendment
In June 2020, Tulsi Gabbard proposed an amendment to the House version of the 2021 NDAA to allow Armed Services members to use CBD and hemp products. It was approved 336 to 71 as a package, although House leaders did not fight for its inclusion in the final bill.
February 11, 2022: Gabbard Suggests Guaranteeing Ukraine Won't Join NATO to Avert War
On February 11, 2022, Tulsi Gabbard suggested that President Biden could prevent a war with Russia by guaranteeing that Ukraine would not become a member of NATO, criticizing 'warmongers' and suggesting the U.S. might want Russia to invade.
March 9, 2022: Gabbard Expresses Concern Over Unsecured Bio Agents in Ukraine
On March 9, 2022, Tulsi Gabbard expressed serious concern about the potential risk of unsecured biological agents in Ukrainian labs amidst the war with Russia, calling it a 'global crisis'.
March 13, 2022: Romney Accuses Gabbard of Parroting Russian Propaganda
On March 13, 2022, Mitt Romney tweeted that Tulsi Gabbard was parroting false Russian propaganda regarding a US-funded covert biological weapons program in Ukraine, calling her claims 'treasonous lies'.
April 4, 2022: Gabbard Criticizes Putin's Attack on Ukraine
On April 4, 2022, Tulsi Gabbard tweeted, criticizing President Putin's 'brutal attack on Ukraine' as a 'huge geopolitical error' and called for the withdrawal of Russian forces.
April 2022: Expressed Support for Florida's Parental Rights Bill
In April 2022, Tulsi Gabbard expressed support for Florida's Parental Rights Bill, stating it didn't go far enough.
August 2022: Fill-in Host for Tucker Carlson Tonight
In August 2022, Tulsi Gabbard started serving as the fill-in host for Tucker Carlson Tonight.
October 11, 2022: Left the Democratic Party
On October 11, 2022, Tulsi Gabbard announced she was leaving the Democratic Party, criticizing its leadership.
November 2022: Signed Deal with Fox News as a Paid Contributor
In November 2022, Tulsi Gabbard signed a deal with Fox News as a paid contributor.
2022: Openness to Border Wall Proposal
By 2022, Tulsi Gabbard had stated she would be open to a proposal for a border wall if experts deemed it warranted.
2022: Endorsement of Florida Parental Rights in Education Act
In 2022, Tulsi Gabbard endorsed the Florida Parental Rights in Education Act, which restricts discussions on sexual orientation and gender identity in schools.
2022: Left the Democratic Party
In 2022, Tulsi Gabbard left the Democratic Party.
2022: Featured Speaker at CPAC
In 2022, Tulsi Gabbard was a featured speaker at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), marking her alignment with conservative platforms.
November 2023: Attendance at March for Israel
In November 2023, Tulsi Gabbard participated in the March for Israel in Washington, D.C.
December 2023: Gabbard Questions the Remilitarization of Japan
In December 2023, Tulsi Gabbard questioned the ongoing remilitarization of Japan, cautioning against shortsighted leadership potentially leading to conflict.
2023: Frequent Guest Host
In August 2022, Gabbard started serving as the fill-in host for Tucker Carlson Tonight, and continued to be a frequent guest host of the show until its cancellation in 2023.
February 22, 2024: Featured Speaker at CPAC
On February 22, 2024, Tulsi Gabbard was a featured speaker at CPAC, raising speculation of her candidacy as a potential vice-presidential selection.
March 2024: Mentioned as Potential Trump Running Mate
In March 2024, Donald Trump cited Tulsi Gabbard as one of his potential choices for his running mate.
August 26, 2024: Endorsed Trump's Re-election Bid
On August 26, 2024, Tulsi Gabbard endorsed Donald Trump's re-election bid.
August 30, 2024: Gabbard Accused of Endorsing Russian Propaganda on Ukraine Biolabs
On August 30, 2024, Dana Milbank wrote in a Washington Post op-ed that Tulsi Gabbard had endorsed Russian propaganda by falsely claiming the United States was funding biological laboratories in Ukraine that could spread dangerous pathogens.
October 22, 2024: Joined the Republican Party
On October 22, 2024, Tulsi Gabbard announced she was joining the Republican Party while speaking at a Trump rally in Greensboro, North Carolina.
November 13, 2024: Nominated as Director of National Intelligence
On November 13, 2024, President-elect Donald Trump nominated Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence (DNI).
November 2024: Reports about Gabbard calling for evidence
In November 2024, the BBC reported that Gabbard had called for evidence to be presented to Congress.
2024: Endorsed Donald Trump and joined the Republican Party
In 2024, Gabbard endorsed Donald Trump for the presidential election and joined the Republican Party later that year.
2024: Joined the Republican Party
In 2024, Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democrat, joined the Republican Party.
2024: Gabbard's Ties to Russia Scrutinized
In 2024, the New York Times reported that while some lawmakers accused Gabbard of pro-Russia foreign policy stances that were praised by Russian media, there was no evidence of a connection between Gabbard and Russian agencies, although her calls for improved diplomatic ties made her a popular voice in Russian state media.
2024: Trump Transition Team Denies Gabbard's Affiliation with SIF
In 2024, the Trump transition team stated that Tulsi Gabbard has 'no affiliation' with the Science of Identity Foundation.
2024: Gabbard Discusses IVF Attempts on Podcast
While on Meghan McCain's podcast in 2024, Tulsi Gabbard mentioned that she and Williams had tried to start a family and had undergone several in-vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures, without success.
January 27, 2025: Support from Officials for DNI Nomination
On January 27, 2025, former intelligence and national security officials expressed support for Tulsi Gabbard, asserting she would help depoliticize intelligence agencies.
January 30, 2025: Testified Before Senate Committee
On January 30, 2025, Tulsi Gabbard testified before the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and pledged to separate her political views from her official duties.
February 4, 2025: Senate Committee Advanced Nomination
On February 4, 2025, the Senate Intelligence Committee advanced Tulsi Gabbard's nomination in a 9-8 party-line vote.
February 10, 2025: Senator Murkowski Announced Support
On February 10, 2025, Senator Lisa Murkowski announced her support for Tulsi Gabbard, stating that she appreciated her commitment to oversight and ensuring civil liberties remain protected.
February 11, 2025: Senator Reed Criticizes Gabbard's Views During DNI Nomination Consideration
On February 11, 2025, during Senate consideration of Gabbard's nomination for DNI, Senator Jack Reed referenced Mitt Romney's previous accusation that she was parroting Russian propaganda regarding a covert biological weapons program in Ukraine.
February 12, 2025: Swearing-in as Director of National Intelligence
On February 12, 2025, Tulsi Gabbard was sworn in as the 8th Director of National Intelligence. She took responsibility for leading 18 U.S. intelligence agencies and became the president's top intelligence advisor.
February 2025: Confirmed by the Senate as DNI
In February 2025, Tulsi Gabbard was confirmed by the Senate, becoming the highest-ranking Pacific Islander American government official in U.S. history.
2025: Became 8th Director of National Intelligence
In 2025, Tulsi Gabbard became the 8th Director of National Intelligence.
2035: Target Year for 100% Clean Energy Transition
In 2017, she introduced the Off Fossil Fuels (OFF) Act, which aimed for a transition to 100% clean energy by 2035.
