Earlier on Friday, RedState's own Susie Moore brought us the news that the Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, was resigning, effective June 30th. Tulsi Gabbard gave her husband's recent cancer diagnosis as the reason for her resignation.
Read More: Breaking: Gabbard Set to Resign As Director of National Intelligence
Now, President Trump has issued a statement on the DNI's resignation.
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) May 22, 2026
The president wrote:
Unfortunately, after having done a great job, Tulsi Gabbard will be leaving the Administration on June 30th. Her wonderful husband, Abraham, has been recently diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer, and she, 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. Tulsi has done an incredible job, and we will miss her. Her highly respected Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, Aaron Lukas, will serve as Acting Director of National Intelligence. President DONALD J. TRUMP
President Trump also notes that the Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, Aaron Lukas, will be stepping in as Acting Director. Mr. Lukas served as Deputy Senior Director for Europe and Russia at the National Security Council during President Trump's first term. He is a graduate of Texas A&M with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, and also holds a Master's in International Affairs from George Washington University. He has previously worked for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and has been working in the Office of the Director of National Intelligence in both of President Trump's terms.
This remains a developing story. Stay tuned. And, in the meantime, the Gabbard family has our thoughts and best wishes with them at this trying time.
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