Newly minted Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard was sworn in Wednesday, pledging to restore Americans’ trust in the intelligence community.

Ms. Gabbard was sworn in the Oval Office alongside President Trump, her husband, sister and assorted friends. Attorney General Pam Bondi administered the oath. 

After taking the oath, Ms. Gabbard decried the politicization of the intelligence community and said that under her leadership, she would ensure it stays focused on protecting the nation.

“Unfortunately, the American people have very little trust in the intelligence community, largely because they’ve seen the weaponization and politicization of an entity that is supposed to be purely focused on ensuring our national security,” she said. 

Ms. Gabbard said she will help Mr. Trump “refocus our intelligence community” to ensure “the safety, security and freedom of the American people.” 

Mr. Trump hailed his new intelligence chief, saying she’s “earned the respect and admiration” of Americans on both sides of the aisle. He said she had “a profound commitment” to keeping the nation free. 

Earlier Wednesday the Senate voted to confirm Ms. Gabbard in a 52-48 vote along party lines, though Republican Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky joined Democrats in opposing her nomination. 

Ms. Gabbard faced concerns from several Republican senators over her lack of support for Ukraine and past support for Edward Snowden, who revealed U.S. intelligence secrets. She is a former Democratic congresswoman.

• Jeff Mordock can be reached at jmordock@washingtontimes.com.