In a move that has stirred both support and controversy, evangelist Franklin Graham has publicly endorsed former U.S. Representative Tulsi Gabbard for the role of Director of National Intelligence (DNI).

According to the Christian Post, Graham's endorsement comes amid concerns from various Christian groups over Gabbard's alleged connections to Hindu nationalist elements in India.

Timeline Leading Up to Senate Committee Approval

Franklin Graham expressed his support for Gabbard’s suitability for DNI on social media, emphasizing his long-standing respect for her character and abilities. "I've known Tulsi for many years and have a deep respect for her. I attended her confirmation hearing last week. I've always found her to be honest, incredibly smart, and a tough soldier," Graham stated.

After Graham’s endorsement, the Senate Intelligence Committee, which convened on Tuesday, confirmed Gabbard in a tightly contested 9-8 vote. The approval split along party lines and set the stage for the next consideration phase on the Senate floor.

From her time in Congress between 2013 and 2021, Gabbard earned recognition as an influential voice in politics. Her service extended beyond the political arena to the military, where she has served as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve since 2021.

Concerns Over Gabbard's Alleged Ties to Indian Nationalists

Amid the hearings, the Federation of Indian American Christian Organizations (FIACONA) expressed unease about Gabbard's connections to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The BJP is linked to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a group implicated in communal violence against religious minorities in India.

Statistics provided by groups monitoring persecution highlight severe concerns about religious freedom in India. Open Doors lists India as the 11th-worst country globally for Christian persecution, while the United Christian Forum noted a significant rise in violent and intimidating acts against Christians since 2014.

FIACONA has gone as far as to label Gabbard's associations as a potential national security threat, citing profits from connections to American affiliates of the RSS. Gabbard, however, strongly dismissed these allegations during her hearing. "Those who oppose my nomination imply that I am loyal to something or someone other than God, my own conscience, and the Constitution of the United States," she defended.

Favorable Reactions from Prominent Supporters

On the other hand, Gabbard has also drawn support from within political ranks. Senator Susan Collins, after a thorough review, announced her backing for Gabbard’s nomination. "After extensive consideration of her nomination, I will support Tulsi Gabbard to be the Director of National Intelligence," Collins declared, highlighting the depth of review and reflection brought into decision-making.

Graham further encouraged his followers to support Gabbard through the challenges in the Senate. "The confirmation process has been challenging because of her more conservative views in recent years. Would you join me in praying that God will strengthen her, guide her, and give her favor?" he asked on social media.

Bryan Nerren, a pastor who experienced imprisonment in India, also voiced his skepticism regarding Gabbard's suitability due to her perceived connections with the Modi government. These controversial ties are among the central themes in the ongoing debate over her candidacy.

Gabbard Stands Resolute Amid Controversy

In her defense, Gabbard reiterated her commitment to serving the U.S. with integrity, reflecting on the absurdity of being accused as a puppet of numerous global figures, from Trump to Modi. "They used the same tactic against President Trump and failed. The American people elected President Trump with a decisive victory and mandate for change," Gabbard asserted during the committee hearing.

The discussion over Gabbard’s nomination illustrates the complexities of political endorsements and the overlapping concerns of national security, personal affiliations, and religious freedoms. As the Senate prepares to consider her in the floor session, the spectrum of opinions underscores the polarized nature of this appointment.

Whether Tulsi Gabbard will overcome the objections to secure the DNI position remains to be seen, as the debate continues to evolve with implications for political, religious, and international dynamics.