Top Democrat Says Tulsi Gabbard Would Have Received 'No More Than 10 Votes' If Ballots Were 'Secret'

In a final protest against Wednesday's confirmation of Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer contended that most Republicans would not vote for her if votes were private.

Speaking ahead of the Senate vote, Schumer implied some Republicans were more concerned with what Trump would think of them, than with voting in accordance with their conscience. He urged his GOP colleagues to consider the national security implications of Gabbard's appointment, warning that her past positions—including sympathetic remarks about Russia, a controversial 2017 meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, and support for whistleblower Edward Snowden—made her an unfit choice.

"If there was a secret ballot, I would bet that Gabbard would get no more than 10 votes in the Senate. 10. Maybe!" Schumer said. "Do you care more about doing the right thing for our national security or doing whatever is necessary to keep Donald Trump happy?"

Trump has openly prioritized loyalty to himself in selecting his cabinet picks and in offering his support, rewarding those who show him unwavering support, and vocally condemning opposition. Despite previous reports of in-fighting, Republicans have rallied around Trump's agenda in recent weeks.

Gabbard was confirmed in a 52-48 vote, with only one Republican, Senator Mitch McConnell, breaking ranks to oppose her. The former Hawaii congresswoman's confirmation came despite opposition from nearly 100 former U.S. national security officials, as well as vocal criticism from figures like former National Security Adviser John Bolton.