Former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii) formally endorsed former President Donald Trump on Monday, praising his experience and leadership as commander-in-chief.
The endorsement, which came during Trump’s appearance at a National Guard conference in Detroit, surprised many as Gabbard has previously run for president as a Democrat.
Gabbard, a decorated military veteran, made the announcement just hours after Trump attended a private event at Arlington National Cemetery with families of the 13 servicemembers killed during the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal three years ago. During the event, Trump introduced Gabbard, 43, calling her a “special person” with “great common sense” and “great spirit,” noting her deep love for the country.
Gabbard, who sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020 and later left the party in 2022, urged Americans who value peace and freedom to support Trump’s return to the White House.
“If you love our country, as I do, if you cherish peace and freedom, as we do, I invite you to join me in doing all that we can to save our country and elect President Donald J. Trump,” Gabbard stated.
Trump, 78, has tapped Gabbard to assist in his preparations for an upcoming debate against Vice President Kamala Harris on September 10. Gabbard gained attention during a 2019 Democratic primary debate in Detroit when she delivered a sharp critique of Harris’s record as California’s attorney general, which many believe contributed to Harris’s early exit from the primary race.
In her endorsement, Gabbard emphasized Trump’s understanding of the grave responsibilities of a president and commander-in-chief, particularly regarding the lives of military personnel. She praised Trump’s first term, noting that he avoided starting new wars and took steps to de-escalate conflicts.
“He exercised the courage that we expect from our commander-in-chief in exhausting all measures of diplomacy,” Gabbard said, highlighting Trump’s willingness to engage with adversaries, allies, and partners alike in the pursuit of peace.
Before her election to Congress in 2012, Gabbard served two tours of duty in the Middle East with the Hawaii Army National Guard, further reinforcing her perspective on the importance of strong and thoughtful leadership in the White House.
