Tulsi Gabbard's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Tulsi Gabbard.

Tulsi Gabbard is an American politician and military officer currently serving as the Director of National Intelligence since 2025 and holding the rank of lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve since 2021. She formerly served as the U.S. Representative for Hawaii's 2nd congressional district from 2013 to 2021. Formerly a Democrat, Gabbard joined the Republican Party in 2024. Prior to her congressional service, she was the youngest state legislator in Hawaii from 2002 to 2004.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals

2005: Deployed to Iraq

From 2004 to 2005, Gabbard was deployed to Iraq, where she served as a specialist with a medical unit, and received the Combat Medical Badge.

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."

March 2007: Graduated from Officer Candidate School

In March 2007, she graduated from the Accelerated Officer Candidate School at the Alabama Military Academy at the top of her class, the first woman ever to do so.

2012: Spoke at Democratic National Convention, Elected to Congress

In 2012, Gabbard spoke at the Democratic National Convention. In the general election, she defeated Republican Kawika Crowley with 80.6% of the vote, becoming the first voting Samoan American and first Hindu member of Congress.

November 25, 2013: Receiving John F. Kennedy New Frontier Award

On November 25, 2013, Tulsi Gabbard received the John F. Kennedy New Frontier Award for her efforts on behalf of veterans.

March 20, 2014: Honored by Elle Magazine on 'Women in Washington Power List'

On March 20, 2014, Elle magazine honored Tulsi Gabbard, with others, at the Italian Embassy in the United States during its annual "Women in Washington Power List".

February 26, 2015: Receiving 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: Receiving 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.

December 2016: Bill to Award Congressional Gold Medal Signed into Law

In December 2016, the bill co-sponsored by Gabbard with 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.

September 30, 2018: Receiving 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".

October 16, 2018: Honored as Hawaii Pacific University's Distinguished Alumni

On October 16, 2018, Tulsi Gabbard was honored as Hawaii Pacific University's 2018 Paul T. C. Loo Distinguished Alumni.

March 3, 2020: Gabbard Earns Delegates in American Samoa

On March 3, 2020, Gabbard earned two delegates in American Samoa, making her the second woman of color and the first Asian-American and Pacific-Islander presidential candidate to earn primary delegates.

November 2020: Jennifer Smith Reinstated

In November 2020, Jennifer Smith was reinstated, after Tulsi Gabbard continued to support her.

June 20, 2024: Awarded Champion's Award by Second Amendment Institute

On June 20, 2024, The Second Amendment Institute awarded the Champion's Award to Tulsi Gabbard at their Annual Champion Ceremony in Washington, DC.

February 4, 2025: Senate Committee Advances Nomination

On February 4, 2025, the Senate Intelligence Committee advanced Tulsi Gabbard's nomination in a 9–8 party-line vote, after Senators Susan Collins and James Lankford voiced their support following Gabbard's clarifications on her stances.

February 10, 2025: Murkowski Announces Support

On February 10, 2025, Senator Lisa Murkowski announced her support for Tulsi Gabbard's nomination, citing Gabbard's commitment to oversight and civil liberties. The Senate later confirmed her nomination on February 12.

February 12, 2025: Sworn in as Director of National Intelligence

On February 12, 2025, Tulsi Gabbard was sworn in as the 8th Director of National Intelligence by Attorney General Pam Bondi. She became the first female military combat veteran, Pacific Islander American, and Hindu American to hold a Cabinet-level position.