United States Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has announced her resignation, saying she needs to step away from public office to care for her husband, Abraham Williams, who was recently diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer.
Gabbard disclosed the decision in a resignation letter posted on her X account on Friday, stating that her resignation will take effect on June 30, 2026.
She said the decision was difficult but unavoidable as her husband begins medical treatment.
“At this time, I must step away from public service to be by his side and fully support him through this battle,” she wrote.
Gabbard thanked President Donald Trump for entrusting her with the role and reflected on her time leading the Office of the Director of National Intelligence over the past year and a half.
She paid tribute to Williams, describing him as a constant source of support throughout their 11-year marriage, including during military deployments, political campaigns and her years in public service.
“His strength and love have sustained me through every challenge,” she said.
According to Gabbard, continuing in such a demanding national security position while her husband faces a serious illness would be impossible.
“I cannot in good conscience leave him to face this alone,” she added.
Despite her resignation, Gabbard said she remains committed to ensuring an orderly transition before leaving office.
“I am fully committed to ensuring a smooth and thorough transition over the coming weeks so that there is no disruption in leadership or momentum,” she stated.
During her tenure, Gabbard spearheaded reforms within the US intelligence community, overseeing cost-cutting measures and structural changes to several programmes.
Her office also supervised the declassification of records tied to high-profile investigations and historic events, including files connected to the Trump-Russia probe and the assassinations of former US leaders John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy.
Describing her time in office as a “profound honour,” Gabbard expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve while preparing to shift her focus to supporting her family during what she called a deeply personal battle.
