Tulsi Gabbard has announced she will resign as Director of National Intelligence in the United States, saying she is stepping away from public office to support her husband, Abraham Williams, after his recent diagnosis with an extremely rare form of bone cancer.
Her resignation is effective from 30 June 2026. The announcement was made in a letter to President Donald Trump, where Gabbard said she could not continue in the demanding role while her husband faces the health battle ahead. The resignation has been reported by major U.S. media, including AP and Reuters.
Gabbard, who was born in Leloaloa, American Samoa, became one of the most senior Pacific Islander Americans in U.S. government when she was appointed Director of National Intelligence. The role oversees the U.S. intelligence community and advises the President on national security matters.
American Samoa Congresswoman Aumua Amata responded publicly, describing Gabbard as a longtime friend and sending prayers to Gabbard and her husband. In her Facebook post, Amata said Gabbard had always embraced her American Samoa roots and honoured the culture.
Gabbard previously represented Hawaii in the U.S. House of Representatives and later became a member of President Trump’s Cabinet. Her time as intelligence chief drew strong political attention in Washington, but her resignation letter placed the decision on family and her husband’s health.
President Trump has acknowledged her resignation, with Deputy Director Aaron Lukas expected to serve as acting Director of National Intelligence after her departure.
