A conservative watchdog group has intensified its efforts to uncover the truth behind Tulsi Gabbard’s alleged surveillance under the Transportation Security Administration’s Quiet Skies program. The controversy has gained significant attention, especially in light of Gabbard’s potential nomination as Director of National Intelligence. What evidence supports Gabbard’s claim of being on a terrorist watchlist?
Gabbard’s Allegations and TSA’s Response
Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic congresswoman who has since aligned with Republicans, claims she was placed on a TSA “secret terror watchlist” called Quiet Skies. She attributes this alleged targeting to her political shift and criticism of Vice President Kamala Harris.
The TSA, however, describes Quiet Skies as a risk-based security measure applied to a limited number of travelers, not a terrorist watchlist. In response to inquiries, the agency has neither confirmed nor denied Gabbard’s status, citing the protection of civil liberties and national security.
Kamala says she believes in freedom, but I was put on a secret terror watch list after I publicly criticized her. No one will be safe from political retaliation under a Harris administration. I put my life on the line for this country. Now the government calls me a terror threat. pic.twitter.com/3xjgjmrLhD
— Tulsi Gabbard 🌺 (@TulsiGabbard) September 4, 2024
Judicial Watch’s FOIA Lawsuit
Judicial Watch has filed a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security concerning records related to Gabbard’s alleged surveillance under the Quiet Skies program. The organization is seeking to expedite the lawsuit, as noted in a December 11 court order.
In response to Judicial Watch’s requests, DHS reviewed 506 pages of records, producing 13 pages with redacted information related to Gabbard’s surveillance. The Biden administration, however, has refused to confirm or deny her targeting.
They put Tulsi Gabbard on a terror watchlist.
Now she’s Director of National Intelligence.
The biggest “F you” to the Deep State Swamp. pic.twitter.com/xjMIz4yQA6
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) November 13, 2024
Political Implications and Controversies
The controversy surrounding Gabbard’s alleged surveillance has gained further significance due to her potential nomination as Director of National Intelligence by Donald Trump. This nomination has raised concerns among intelligence officials and allies, given Gabbard’s lack of formal intelligence experience and her controversial foreign policy views.
Republican lawmakers, including Senators James Comer and Rand Paul, have requested TSA records on Gabbard and others allegedly targeted by such programs. U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett has also written to TSA Administrator David P. Pekoske, demanding answers about Gabbard’s placement on the watchlist.
