Tulsi Gabbard: Former Congresswoman Announces Departure from Democratic Party

Early Life and Career

Tulsi Gabbard (pronounced "TUL-see GAB-ərd") was born on April 12, 1981, in Leloaloa, American Samoa. She is an American politician and former United States Army Reserve officer. Gabbard has served as the U.S. Representative for Hawaii's 2nd congressional district since 2013.

Political Views

Gabbard's political views have been described as progressive on some social and economic issues, but conservative on others, particularly regarding national security.

Foreign Policy

Gabbard has been critical of US involvement in foreign conflicts, including in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria. She has also expressed support for the Palestinian cause and has called for an end to Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

Social Issues

On social issues, Gabbard supports abortion rights, LGBT rights, and campaign finance reform. She has also been a vocal advocate for veterans' rights.

Presidential Campaign

In January 2019, Gabbard announced her candidacy for the Democratic nomination for President of the United States in 2020. She ultimately withdrew from the race in March 2020.

Departure from Democratic Party

On October 11, 2022, Gabbard announced that she was leaving the Democratic Party. In a video posted on Twitter, she criticized the party for its "warmongering" and "elitism." Gabbard's departure from the Democratic Party is the latest in a series of defections by prominent Democrats who are dissatisfied with the party's direction.