In a bold but perhaps unsurprising move, former Democratic Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii announced on Tuesday that she is officially joining the Republican Party.
This decision marks a significant shift in the political career of a figure who, just a few years ago, was a rising star within the Democratic ranks.
Gabbard’s announcement took place at a rally for former President Donald Trump, whose 2024 presidential campaign she formally endorsed earlier this year in August.
Gabbard’s decision is seen as a natural progression, as she has become increasingly critical of the Democratic establishment over the past several years.
During her speech at the Trump rally, she emphasized that her transition to the GOP was driven by her deep love for the country and her belief in the leadership and vision Trump brought to the Republican Party.
“It is because of my love for our country and, specifically, because of the leadership that President Trump has brought to transform the Republican Party and bring it back to the party of the people and the party of peace, that I’m proud to stand here with you today, President Trump, and announce that I’m joining the Republican Party,” Gabbard declared, standing alongside Trump.
The audience, filled with enthusiastic Trump supporters, responded with resounding applause.
Gabbard’s embrace of the Republican Party, now more aligned with populist and anti-establishment sentiment under Trump, is a testament to her frustration with the Democratic Party’s trajectory, particularly on issues of foreign policy and national security.
Gabbard went on, “I’m joining the party of the people, the party of equality, the party that was founded to fight against and end slavery in this country. It is the party of common sense, and the party that is led by a president, who has the courage and strength to fight for peace.”
Gabbard, a veteran of the National Guard who served two tours of duty in the Middle East, has long held views that diverged from mainstream Democratic positions, especially on foreign policy.
Her opposition to America’s interventionist stance in the Middle East has earned her respect from many Republicans and conservatives.
After her unsuccessful 2020 presidential campaign, where she vied for the Democratic nomination against Joe Biden, Gabbard left the party entirely, becoming an independent.
While many predicted her political career was over, she has remained a prominent voice, especially in conservative circles.
She has campaigned for high-profile Republican candidates and is now a regular commentator on conservative media outlets, where she often speaks out against the establishment wing of both parties.
