Former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, tapped to be Director of National Intelligence in President-elect Trump’s administration, is under scrutiny for her political action committee (PAC) activities. Gabbard’s network of PACs, including Defend Freedom, Inc. and For Love of Country, Inc., has raised millions but spent the majority on operating expenses rather than supporting candidates.
Defend Freedom, Inc. raised $1.9 million by October 2024 but allocated just $20,000 to candidates, focusing instead on fundraising and consulting costs. For Love of Country, Inc. reported $280,000 in contributions, with most expenditures going to political staff and advisers. Critics argue such PACs often serve as money-churning machines benefiting vendors rather than achieving their stated goals.
The controversy is compounded by questions about donor transparency. A $100,000 contribution from “David Flory” listed a questionable address, with records suggesting the donor may not exist. According to public records, there is no David Flory who resides at the Miami address listed for the donation. However, records indicate a man named David Flor once lived there, he passed away in 2013. Gabbard’s team declined to address these discrepancies.
As Gabbard’s Senate confirmation approaches, the network of PACs and their financial practices are likely to face intense scrutiny, raising broader concerns about accountability in campaign finance.
