Tulsi Gabbard Transfers Presidential Daily Brief Staff from CIA to ODNI

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has made significant changes to the structure of the Presidential Daily Brief staff. Fox News Digital confirmed that she moved the staff from the Central Intelligence Agency to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. This decision marks a pivotal shift in how national security information is managed at the highest level of government.

Streamlining Intelligence Operations

A senior intelligence source explained the rationale behind this move to Fox News Digital. The source stated that the director of National Intelligence has always had oversight over the Presidential Daily Brief, adding that Gabbard’s action serves to streamline the operational process while ensuring continuity in the workforce.

Understanding the Presidential Daily Brief

The Presidential Daily Brief, commonly referred to as the PDB, is a crucial document. It provides a daily overview of relevant, high-level national security issues. This briefing is coordinated by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and includes contributions from various intelligence agencies, including the CIA. The PDB has been delivered to presidents since 1946, serving as a vital tool for informed decision-making.

Moving the National Intelligence Council

In tandem with transferring the PDB staff, Gabbard also moved the National Intelligence Council from the CIA to ODNI, with senior intelligence officials confirming that the NIC has historically been a component of the DNI. A CIA official remarked that having the NIC located at the DNI makes operational sense.

Enhancing Intelligence Advisory Role

During her confirmation hearing, Gabbard emphasized her commitment to delivering timely, accurate, and actionable intelligence as the principal advisor to the president. The PDB staff and the NIC are integral to providing Gabbard with the necessary advisory material. By physically relocating these teams closer together, she aims to decrease response times and enhance the quality of intelligence presentations to the president.

Addressing Concerns of ‘Deep State’ Elements

This restructuring occurs against a backdrop of Gabbard’s efforts to eliminate leaks and address what she describes as ‘deep state’ elements that have politicized intelligence operations. Gabbard’s assertion is that certain individuals within the intelligence community have undermined the Trump administration and worked to distort intelligence analysis.

Prosecutions and Accountability

To bolster her position, Gabbard has referred several intelligence community professionals to the Department of Justice for alleged criminal activities linked to the leaking of classified information. Reports indicate that these leaks were directed towards major news outlets, specifically the Washington Post and The New York Times. Fox News Digital first reported these referrals in April.

Fired Officials and Allegations of Bias

Recent reports also reveal that Gabbard has dismissed senior officials from the National Intelligence Council. These individuals were reported by whistleblowers to be significantly biased against Trump. Gabbard terminated Mike Collins, who was the acting chair, and Maria Langan-Riekhof, his deputy. These actions follow allegations of political bias against Collins, who faced accusations of undermining the Trump’s transition to the presidency.

Collins’ Controversial Background

Collins has ties to other intelligence figures, including Michael Morrell, who played a key role in crafting a public letter during the 2020 elections. This letter asserted that Hunter Biden’s laptop had the hallmarks of a Russian information operation. Such connections have raised further questions about the impartiality and integrity of intelligence operations during politically sensitive times.

Langan-Riekhof’s Advocacy

Meanwhile, Langan-Riekhof has been noted for her support of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Whistleblowers allege that she, too, holds biases that could affect her professional responsibilities.

What Comes Next for National Intelligence?

As Gabbard implements these significant adjustments within the intelligence community, observers will closely monitor the impact on both intelligence operations and national security decision-making. The focus on accuracy, timeliness, and direct access to intelligence is expected to shape the adviser’s role as well as enhance the president’s access to critical information.

Gabbard’s moves represent a broader commitment to reform within the intelligence sector, striving for transparency and effectiveness. Moving forward, the interplay between intelligence operations and political dynamics will likely remain a focal point of discussion.