Tulsi Gabbard Critiques Politically Driven Surveillance After TSA Listing

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has expressed strong concerns regarding what she describes as politically motivated surveillance. This statement follows revelations about her inclusion on the Transportation Security Administration’s TSA “Quiet Skies” watchlist during a recent Senate hearing.

Allegations of Intimidation

In an appearance on Fox News with host Laura Ingraham, Gabbard stated her belief that her placement on the watchlist was a direct response to her criticism of then-Vice President Kamala Harris. This criticism unfolded during a July interview on **The Ingraham Angle**.

Gabbard’s allegations surface at a time when former President Joe Biden has exited the 2024 presidential race and endorsed Harris as the Democratic nominee. Reflecting on her situation, she remarked, “I think they were trying to intimidate me. They are attempting to create a chilling effect by sending a clear message: if you criticize Vice President Harris, who is now the Democratic nominee, you too will face repercussions.”

The Context of the Surveillance

During a Senate Homeland Security Committee hearing, Senator Rand Paul, a Republican from Kentucky, disclosed that he had access to records from the Department of Homeland Security. These records confirm that federal air marshals monitored Gabbard during domestic flights in 2024.

Senator Paul pointed out that the air marshals documented information about Gabbard’s physical appearance and the number of electronic devices she used. The TSA’s “Quiet Skies” program, initiated in 2010, aims to identify specific passengers for heightened screening based on aggregated travel data and intelligence analysis.

Concerns Over Civil Liberties

Despite its intentions, the program has encountered substantial criticism. Advocates argue that the lack of transparency raises significant civil liberties concerns. In a report released in April 2019, the Department of Homeland Security stated that individuals are flagged for enhanced screening due to a combination of travel data, intelligence insights, and suspicious activity trends.

According to a report by CNN, Gabbard was temporarily placed on the watchlist before being swiftly removed. This development led the TSA to clarify that their program does not constitute a terrorist watchlist.

TSA’s Defense of the Program

The TSA defended its “Quiet Skies” initiative, stating, “The program is a risk-based, automated approach to transportation security designed to identify potential risks and implement enhanced security measures. It utilizes government intelligence and databases to effectively apply screening strategies.”

However, despite these assurances, the TSA did not respond promptly to inquiries regarding Gabbard’s placement on the watchlist. Ingraham further questioned whether the program should continue. Gabbard firmly replied, “No. This ‘Quiet Skies’ program has not resulted in the apprehension of a single terrorist since its initiation. Instead, it directs approximately 40 to 50 federal air marshals each day to surveil ordinary Americans without a valid purpose.”

A Call for Change

Gabbard’s assertions signal a growing concern among citizens about the government’s ability to monitor individuals without sufficient justification. She underlines the ongoing surveillance of American citizens as a critical issue, noting that it continues daily without yielding tangible results.

The former Congresswoman’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the lengths to which authorities may go in terms of surveillance, especially against those who challenge political figures. Gabbard’s remarks encapsulate the broader debate on privacy, government oversight, and fear-based strategies that can stifle dissent.

Future Implications

As the political landscape evolves, Gabbard’s criticisms could resonate with a wider audience concerned about civil liberties and government overreach. The implications of her situation may spark new discussions regarding the structures in place overseeing programs like