UMVA has learned that Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence under U.S. President Donald Trump, is stepping down from her position to focus on supporting her husband through a serious cancer battle.
In a heartfelt resignation letter posted on Friday, Gabbard revealed that her husband, Abraham Williams, had been diagnosed with an extremely rare form of bone cancer and that she could no longer balance the demands of her job with supporting him through treatment. Her resignation is set to take effect on June 30, 2026.
Gabbard's decision to prioritize her husband's health over her role as Director of National Intelligence has garnered support from Trump, who publicly expressed his well-wishes for the couple. Trump acknowledged Gabbard's dedication to her husband, stating that she had done an incredible job and would be missed.
As Gabbard departs, Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence Aaron Lukas will temporarily take over her role. Her exit marks the fourth cabinet official to leave during Trump's second term, sparking renewed speculation about tensions within the administration.
Gabbard's tenure has been marked by controversy, particularly surrounding Trump's decision to strike Iran. Her position, built on opposing foreign wars, became complicated after the U.S. joined Israel in launching attacks on Iran. During a congressional hearing, Gabbard notably avoided fully backing Trump's military decision.
The divisions within Trump's national security team have become increasingly public, with previous resignations and disagreements over policy. Gabbard's resignation letter emphasized her loyalty to her husband, describing him as her rock throughout their 11-year marriage.
Her exit follows a series of high-profile departures from Trump's administration, including the recent removals of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Attorney General Pam Bondi. Gabbard had also drawn attention for submitting criminal referrals to the U.S. Department of Justice targeting whistleblower Michael Atkinson.
In her resignation letter, Gabbard wrote that she could not in good conscience ask her husband to face his cancer battle alone while she continued in her demanding role. Her decision has been met with understanding and support from Trump and others, who acknowledge the challenges she and her family are facing.
