United States: Donald Trump plans to select Aaron Lukas as deputy director of National Intelligence to Tulsi Gabbard following her recent confirmation as the top spy, according to sources.
Gabbard Confirmed as National Intelligence Director
Last week, Gabbard obtained her confirmation as National Intelligence Director through a 52 to 48 vote that was mainly divided along party lines because she lacked significant intelligence experience after serving as a U.S. representative, as reported by Reuters.
US President Donald Trump is expected to nominate Aaron Lukas, a career government official, as deputy to newly confirmed director of national intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, a source familiar with the plan says.https://t.co/zszNCbImOF
— Times LIVE (@TimesLIVE) February 19, 2025
Aaron Lukas Tapped for Deputy Role
Lukas joined Ric Grenell at the National Intelligence Directorate during Trump’s initial term as an intelligence aide before seeking the principal deputy director of national intelligence appointment, which needs Senate approval.
No statement was issued by the White House regarding this matter.
Lukas’ Background in Intelligence and Foreign Service
Lukas has dedicated more than two decades to foreign service while working as senior director for Europe and Russia at the White House National Security Council during Trump’s final year between terms. He worked at the Cato Institute, which is a Libertarian think tank, before becoming a part of the foreign service, as reported by Reuters.