FBI Opposes Proposal to Shift Counterintelligence Authority to Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, Citing National Security Risks

FBI Warns Against Proposal to Shift Counterintelligence Authority to ODNI

In a bold move that has ignited a fierce debate in Washington, the FBI has voiced strong opposition to a proposal by House lawmakers that would transfer its counterintelligence authority to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), led by Tulsi Gabbard. The FBI’s concerns, articulated in a sharply worded letter to Congress, highlight a growing power struggle between Gabbard and FBI Director Kash Patel, as well as other intelligence agencies.

The FBI’s letter, which was unclassified, stated that the proposed shift could lead to “serious and long-lasting damage to U.S. national security.” It emphasized that the bureau has decades of experience in countering foreign espionage, supported by a national network of 53 field offices. The FBI warned that transferring authority to officials lacking relevant expertise would create unnecessary bureaucracy and confusion.

“The cumulative effect would be putting decision-making with employees who aren’t actively involved in counterintelligence operations,” the letter stated, underscoring the potential risks of mismanagement in a critical area of national security.

This clash over counterintelligence authority is the latest chapter in a series of turf battles involving Gabbard, who has previously faced criticism for revoking security clearances for national security employees without consulting the CIA. Sources indicate that both the CIA and other intelligence officials share the FBI’s concerns regarding the House proposal.

In a joint statement, the FBI and ODNI expressed their commitment to working with Congress to enhance the nation’s counterintelligence efforts, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in protecting American safety and security.

As lawmakers continue to negotiate an intelligence policy bill, the Senate’s proposal notably does not include the controversial shift of counterintelligence authority to Gabbard’s office. The House bill, however, would grant the ODNI the power to approve counterintelligence activities, raising questions about the implications for ongoing investigations and operations.

Senator Mark Warner, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, has voiced his opposition to dismantling the FBI’s leading role in counterintelligence, warning that such a move could create further tensions within the intelligence community. “ODNI should be a force multiplier, not a competing agency,” he stated.

Meanwhile, House Intelligence Committee Chair Rick Crawford praised the proposed reforms as a necessary update to the nation’s counterintelligence posture, arguing that the U.S. must adopt a more proactive approach against adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran.

As the debate unfolds, the implications of this power struggle could reshape the landscape of U.S. intelligence operations, raising critical questions about the future of national security in an increasingly complex global environment.