Gabbard Fires Top Intelligence Officials Amid Major Reforms

Washington, D.C. — Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence, has dismissed the top two career officials at the National Intelligence Council (NIC), a key group responsible for assessing national security threats. Gabbard’s actions on Tuesday included the termination of Mike Collins, the acting chair, and his deputy Maria Langan-Riekhof.

These dismissals are part of Gabbard’s larger effort to eliminate what she calls the politicization of the intelligence community. Critics warn that her campaign against leaks to the media may result in the loss of expertise within the agency.

Jonathan Panikoff, a former NIC member, praised Collins, calling him a dedicated professional with over 30 years of experience, particularly in China affairs. He described Langan-Riekhof as a gifted analytical thinker.

A spokesman from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence stated, “The Director is working alongside President Trump to end the weaponization and politicization of the Intelligence Community.”

The dismissals followed a NIC assessment that conflicted with the Trump administration’s justification for invoking the Alien Enemies Act to expedite deportations. Gabbard criticized media reports for, as she claims, distorting intelligence findings to harm the president’s agenda.

Gabbard elaborated on her plans during an interview with conservative podcaster Megyn Kelly, stating there are currently 11 internal investigations into media leaks. She mentioned that three cases have been referred to the Justice Department for potential legal action.

“This undermines our democracy because it says, ‘I know what’s best for the country better than the majority who chose this elected president,’” Gabbard remarked, highlighting the need for accountability through investigations.