Tulsi Gabbard, former Democratic congresswoman from Hawaii, has announced her resignation as Director of National Intelligence in Donald Trump's administration, effective 30 June.

Gabbard cited her husband Abraham's diagnosis with a rare form of bone cancer as the reason for stepping down, emphasising her commitment to supporting him during this critical period.

In her statement, she expressed gratitude to Trump for the opportunity to lead the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) over the past year and a half.

President Trump praised Gabbard's service, noting she had done an 'incredible job,' and confirmed her principal deputy, Aaron Lukas, will assume the role of acting DNI.

Gabbard’s tenure was marked by limited involvement in intelligence operations and planning, contrasting with the prominent role held by her predecessor, CIA Director John Ratcliffe.

Her period in office also included participation in high-profile and controversial events, such as the FBI raid of Fulton County, Georgia election facilities in February.

Gabbard, who switched from the Democratic to the Republican Party following her 2020 presidential bid, had previously faced criticism for her pro-Russian and anti-war positions, including a contentious 2015 visit to Syria.Her resignation concludes a turbulent period in her political career, highlighting the personal sacrifices involved in senior government roles.