Democrats and media pundits face criticism over their reactions to Tulsi Gabbard’s resignation as Director of National Intelligence due to her husband’s cancer diagnosis. Tony Kinnett, a national correspondent for The Daily Signal, expressed his disapproval on “Fox & Friends Weekend.”

Kinnett criticized the immediate political focus, stating that the rush to make provocative comments as news breaks reveals negative aspects of many individuals’ characters. Gabbard will officially leave her position on June 30. Her resignation letter, obtained by Fox News Digital, expressed gratitude for her role and revealed her husband Abraham’s rare bone cancer diagnosis.

Tony Kinnett: “The social media ecosystem, a lot of the analysis and punditry sphere, is all about getting out and saying the spiciest thing as soon as the news breaks.”

Some media and Democrats criticized her decision. CNN guests, including former Deputy DNI Beth Sanner, offered sympathy but attacked Gabbard’s tenure. Sanner joked that her DNI title stood for “Do Not Invite.” Democratic Senator Adam Schiff shared similar sentiments on social media, implying that her resignation was her sole positive contribution to national security.

Kinnett argued that politicizing such a personal decision reflects a troubling trend in political commentary. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing family and called the negative reactions a “lack of character” among critics.

Kinnett: “The most principled thing you can do as a wife is to leave something behind, as a spouse in general is to leave your career behind.”

Gabbard began her role in February 2025. She has an extensive background as a U.S. Army Reserve officer and a combat veteran. Previously, she served multiple terms in Congress, transitioning from a Democrat to an independent, and later joined the Republican Party.

Her resignation letter highlighted her husband as her support system during their marriage and her deployments. She expressed she could not in good conscience leave him to fight his health battle alone while continuing her demanding job.

Former President Trump commented on her resignation via Truth Social, acknowledging her decision to prioritize her husband and praising her contributions during her tenure.

Trump: “I have no doubt he will soon be better than ever. Tulsi has done an incredible job, and we will miss her.”