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Tulsi Gabbard has resigned as the U.S. Director of National Intelligence, citing her husband’s recent diagnosis of bone cancer. In a resignation letter submitted on Friday, Gabbard stated she could not remain in the demanding role while her husband faces his illness. President Donald Trump praised her tenure in a social media post, noting she had done an "incredible job" and would be missed.
Her resignation is effective 30 June. Aaron Lukas, the principal deputy director, will step in as acting director, Trump said.
Gabbard, a loyal supporter of Trump during his 2024 presidential campaign, was confirmed as one of the most powerful figures in US intelligence-gathering weeks after he returned to the White House in 2025. But this year, she has largely been out of public view even as the US took military action against Iran, put pressure on Cuba, and notably removed Venezuela's president.
Gabbard is the fourth Cabinet member to depart the Trump administration after Lori Chavez-DeRemer left her position as labor secretary in April. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Attorney General Pam Bondi both left the administration earlier this year.
In her resignation letter, Gabbard said her husband, Abraham, "faces major challenges in the coming weeks and months.”
Trump posted on social media that Gabbard "rightfully, wants to be with him, bringing him back to good health as they currently fight a tough battle together. I have no doubt he will soon be better than ever."
