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Tulsi Gabbard

Prior officesHawaii House of Representatives District 42


U.S. House Hawaii District 2Successor: Kaiali'i Kahele

Compensation

Base salary

$174,000

Net worth

(2012) $411,006

Education

Bachelor's

Hawaii Pacific University

Military

Service / branch

U.S. Army National Guard

Years of service

2003 - 2020

Service / branch

U.S. Army Reserve

PersonalReligionHinduContact

Official website

Official Facebook

Official Twitter

Campaign website

Campaign Facebook

Campaign Twitter

Campaign Instagram

Campaign YouTube

Personal Facebook

Personal LinkedIn

Tulsi Gabbard(Democratic Party) was a member of the U.S. House, representing Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District. She assumed office on January 3, 2013. She left officeon January 3, 2021.

Gabbard (Democratic Party)ran for election for President of the United States. She withdrewbefore the Democraticconvention on August 18, 2020.

In 2012, she became the first Hindu elected to Congress.[1]At the beginning of the 116th Congress, Gabbard was assigned to the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Financial Services.[2]

Prior to her election to the U.S. House, Gabbard served in the Hawaii House of Representatives and on the Honolulu City Council. Gabbard has been deployed on two tours of duty in the Middle East.

Biography

Gabbard was born in 1981 and grew up in Hawaii. In 2002, when she won election to the state House of Representatives at the age of 21, she was the youngest person elected to public office in the state's history. She served in the House until 2004.[3]

Gabbard was a member of the Hawaii Army National Guard from 2003 to 2020. In 2020, she transitioned to an Amy Reserve unit based in California.[4]She has been deployed on two tours of duty in the Middle East. Starting in 2005, she served as a field medical unit specialist in Iraq. During her second tour, she led security missions and helped train the Kuwait National Guard. Between the two tours, Gabbard graduated from the Accelerated Officer Candidate School at the Alabama Military Academy and received a B.S. in business administration from Hawaii Pacific University. She also worked as a legislative aide to Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-Hawaii).[3][5]

Gabbard was elected to the Honolulu City Council in 2010. She served on the council until 2012, when she ran for and won a seat in the U.S. House.[6][3]

In 2013, Gabbard was elected vice chair of the Democratic National Committee.[7]She resigned in February 2016 to endorse Sen. Bernie Sanders in the Democratic presidential primary.[8]

Career

Below is an abbreviated outline of Gabbard's academic, professional, and political career:[9]

Committee assignments

Gabbard was assigned to the following committees:[Source]

At the beginning of the 115th Congress, Gabbard was assigned to the following committees:[10]

Gabbard served on the following committees:[11]

  • Foreign Affairs Committee
  • Gabbard served on the following committees:[12][13]

  • Committee on Homeland Security
  • Key votes

    Ballotpedia monitors legislation that receives a vote and highlights the ones that we consider to be key to understanding where elected officials stand on the issues. To read more about how we identify key votes, click here.

    Key votes (click "show" to expand or "hide" to contract)

    The first session of the 114th Congress enacted into law six out of the 2,616 introduced bills (0.2 percent). Comparatively, the 113th Congress had 1.3 percent of introduced bills enacted into law in the first session. In the second session, the 114th Congress enacted 133 out of 3,159 introduced bills (4.2 percent). Comparatively, the 113th Congress had 7.0 percent of introduced bills enacted into law in the second session.[52][53]For more information pertaining to Gabbard's voting record in the 114th Congress, please see the below sections.[54]

    Trade adjustment assistanceOn June 12, 2015, the House rejected the trade adjustment assistance (TAA) measure in HR 1314—the Trade Act of 2015—by a vote of 126-302. Trade adjustment assistance (TAA) is a federal program providing American workers displaced by foreign trade agreements with job training and services. The measure was packaged with trade promotion authority (TPA), also known as fast-track authority. TPA is a legislative procedure that allows Congress to define "U.S. negotiating objectives and spells out a detailed oversight and consultation process for during trade negotiations. Under TPA, Congress retains the authority to review and decide whether any proposed U.S. trade agreement will be implemented," according to the Office of the United States Trade Representative. Gabbard was one of 144 Democrats to vote against the bill.[55][56]Trade promotion authorityOn June 12, 2015, the House passed the trade promotion authority (TPA) measure in HR 1314—the Trade Act of 2015 —by a vote of 219-211. TPA gives the president fast-track authority to negotiate trade agreements sent to Congress without the opportunity for amendment or filibuster. Although the House approved TPA, it was a largely symbolic vote given the measure was part of a package trade bill including trade adjustment assistance (TAA), which was rejected earlier the same day. Gabbard was one of 157 Democrats to vote against the measure.[57][58]Trade promotion authority second voteAfter the trade adjustment assistance (TAA) and trade promotion authority (TPA) did not pass the House together on June 12, 2015, representatives voted to authorize TPA alone as an amendment to HR 2146—the Defending Public Safety Employees' Retirement Act—on June 18, 2015. The amendment passed by a vote of 218-208, with all voting members of the House maintaining his or her original position on TPA except for Ted Yoho (R-Fla.). Gabbard was one of 158 Democrats to vote against the amendment.[59][60]Trade adjustment assistance second voteThe House passed HR 1295—the Trade Preferences Extension Act of 2015—on June 25, 2015, by a vote of 286-138. The Senate packaged trade adjustment assistance (TAA) in this bill after the House rejected the TAA measure in HR 1314—the Trade Act of 2015. Along with trade promotion authority (TPA), which Congress passed as part of HR 2146—the Defending Public Safety Employees' Retirement Act—TAA became law on June 29, 2015. Gabbard was one of 175 Democrats to vote in favor of HR 1295.[61][62]

    On May 15, 2015, the House passed HR 1735—the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016—by a vote of 269-151. The bill "authorizes FY2016 appropriations and sets forth policies for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities, including military personnel strengths. It does not provide budget authority, which is provided in subsequent appropriations legislation." Gabbard voted with 40 Democrats and 228 Republicans to approve the bill.[63]The Senate passed the bill on June 18, 2015, by a vote of 71-25. President Barack Obama vetoed the bill on October 22, 2015.[64]

    On November 5, 2015, the House passed S 1356—the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016—by a vote of 370-58. The second version of the $607 billion national defense bill included $5 billion in cuts to match what was approved in the budget and language preventing the closure of the Guantanamo Bay military prison.[65][66]Gabbard voted with 134 other Democrats and 235 Republicans to approve the bill.[67]On November 10, 2015, the Senate passed the bill by a vote of 91-3, and President Barack Obama signed it into law on November 25, 2015.[68]

    On April 30, 2015, the House voted to approve SConRes11, a congressional budget proposal for fiscal year 2016, by a vote of 226-197. The non-binding resolution was designed to create 12 appropriations bills to fund the government. All 183 Democrats who voted, including Gabbard, voted against the resolution.[69][70][71]

    On October 28, 2015, the House passed HR 1314—the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015—by a vote of 266-167. The bill increased military and domestic spending levels and suspended the debt ceiling until March 2017.[72]Gabbard voted with 186 Democrats and 79 Republicans in favor of the bill.[73]It passed the Senate on October 30, 2015.[74]President Barack Obama signed it into law on November 2, 2015.

    On May 14, 2015, the House approved HR 1191—the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015—by a vote of 400-25. The bill required President Barack Obama to submit the details of the nuclear deal with Iran for congressional review. Congress had 60 days to review the deal and vote to approve, disapprove, or take no action on the deal. During the review period, sanctions on Iran could not be lifted. Gabbard voted with 176 Democrats to approve the bill.[75][76]

    Approval of Joint Comprehensive Plan of ActionOn September 11, 2015, the House rejected HR 3461—To approve the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, signed at Vienna on July 14, 2015, relating to the nuclear program of Iran—by a vote of 162-269. The legislation proposed approving the nuclear agreement with Iran. Gabbard voted with 161 Democrats for the bill.[77][78]

    Suspension of Iran sanctions reliefOn September 11, 2015, the House approved HR 3460—To suspend until January 21, 2017, the authority of the President to waive, suspend, reduce, provide relief from, or otherwise limit the application of sanctions pursuant to an agreement related to the nuclear program of Iran—by a vote of 247-186. HR 3460 prohibited "the President, prior to January 21, 2017, from: limiting the application of specified sanctions on Iran or refraining from applying any such sanctions; or removing a foreign person (including entities) listed in Attachments 3 or 4 to Annex II of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPA) from the list of designated nationals and blocked persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Asset Control of the Department of the Treasury." Gabbard voted with 185 Democrats against the bill.[79][80]

    Presidential non-compliance of section 2On September 10, 2015, the House passed H Res 411—Finding that the President has not complied with section 2 of the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015—by a vote of 245-186. Section 2 of the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015 required the president to submit all materials related to the nuclear agreement for congressional review. House Republicans introduced the resolution because two agreements between the International Atomic Energy Agency and Iran were not submitted to Congress. Gabbard voted with 185 Democrats against the resolution.[81][82]

    On October 27, 2015, the House passed HR 597—the Export-Import Bank Reform and Reauthorization Act of 2015—by a vote of313-118. The bill proposed reauthorizing the Export-Import Bank and allowing it to resume offering assistance in the form of loans and insurance to foreign companies that wanted to buy U.S. goods.[83]Gabbard voted with 185 Democrats and 127 Republicans in favor of the bill.[84]

    On May 13, 2015, the House passed HR 2048—the Uniting and Strengthening America by Fulfilling Rights and Ensuring Effective Discipline Over Monitoring Act of 2015 or the USA FREEDOM Act of 2015—by a vote of 338-88. The legislation revised HR 3199—the USA PATRIOT Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2005—by ending the bulk collection of metadata under Sec. 215 of the act, requiring increased reporting from the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, and requiring the use of "a specific selection term as the basis for national security letters that request information from wire or electronic communication service providers, financial institutions, or consumer reporting agencies." Gabbard voted with 40 Democrats and 47 Republicans against the legislation. It became law on June 2, 2015.[85][86]

    On May 13, 2015, the House passed HR 36—the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act—by a vote of 242-184. The bill proposed prohibiting abortions from being performed after a fetus was determined to be 20 weeks or older. The bill proposed exceptions in cases of rape, incest, or to save the life of the mother. Gabbard voted with 179 Democrats against the bill.[87][88]

    On April 23, 2015, the House passed HR 1731—the National Cybersecurity Protection Advancement Act of 2015—by a vote of 355-63. The bill proposed creating an information sharing program that would allow federal agencies and private entities to share information about cyber threats. It also proposed including liability protections for companies.[89]Gabbard voted with 134 Democrats and 220 Republicans to approve the bill.[90]

    On April 22, 2015, the House passed HR 1560—the Protecting Cyber Networks Act—by a vote of 307-116.[91]The bill proposed procedures that would allow federal agencies and private entities to share information about cyber threats. Gabbard voted with 78 Democrats and 37 Republicans against the bill.[92]

    On November 19, 2015, the House passed HR 4038—the American SAFE Act of 2015—by a vote of 289-137.[93]The bill proposed instituting additional screening processes for refugees from Iraq and Syria who applied for admission to the U.S. Gabbard voted with 46 Democrats and 242 Republicans in favor of the bill.[94]

    The second session of the 113th Congress enacted into law 224 out of the 3215 introduced bills (7 percent). Comparatively, the 112th Congress had 4.2 percent of introduced bills enacted into law in the second session.[95]For more information pertaining to Gabbard's voting record in the 113th Congress, please see the below sections.[96]

    Gabbard voted against HR 2217 - the DHS Appropriations Act of 2014. The bill passed the House on June 6, 2013, with a vote of 245 - 182 and was largely along party lines.[97]

    Gabbard voted in favor of House Amendment 69, which would have amended HR 3 to "require that the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, in consultation with the Department of Homeland Security, conduct a study of the vulnerabilities of the Keystone XL pipeline to a terrorist attack and certify that necessary protections have been put in place." The amendment failed on May 22, 2013, with a vote of 176 - 239 and was largely along party lines.[97]

    Gabbard voted against HR 624 - the CISPA (2013). The bill passed the House on April 18, 2013, with a vote of 288 - 127. The bill permitted federal intelligence agencies to share cybersecurity intelligence and information with private entities and utilities.[98]The bill was largely supported by Republicans, but divided the Democratic Party.[97]

    Gabbard voted in support of HR 1960 - the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014. The bill passed the House on June 14, 2013, with a vote of 315 - 108. Both parties were somewhat divided on the vote.[97]

    On January 29, 2014, the U.S. House approved the Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management Act of 2013, H.R. 2642, also known as the Farm Bill.[99]The bill passed by a vote of 251-166. The nearly 1,000-page bill reformed and continued various programs of the Department of Agriculture through 2018. The $1 trillion bill expanded crop insurance for farmers by $7 billion over the next decade and created new subsidies for rice and peanut growers that would kick in when prices drop.[100][101]However, cuts to the food stamp program cut an average of $90 per month for 1.7 million people in 15 states.[101]Gabbard voted with 88 other Democratic representatives in favor of the bill.

    On January 15, 2014, the Republican-run House approved H.R. 3547, a $1.1 trillion spending bill to fund the government through September 30, 2014.[102][103]The House voted 359-67 for the 1,582 page bill, with 64 Republicans and 3 Democrats voting against the bill.[103]The omnibus package included 12 annual spending bills to fund federal operations.[104]It included a 1% increase in the paychecks of federal workers and military personnel, a $1 billion increase in Head Start funding for early childhood education, reduced funding to the Internal Revenue Service and the Environmental Protection Agency and left the Affordable Care Act without any drastic cuts. Gabbard did not vote on the bill.[102][103]

    On September 30, 2013, the House passed a final stopgap spending bill before the shutdown went into effect. The bill included a one-year delay of the Affordable Care Act's individual mandate and would have also stripped the bill of federal subsidies for congressional members and staff. It passed through the House with a vote of 228-201.[105]At 1 a.m. on October 1, 2013, one hour after the shutdown officially began, the House voted to move forward with going to a conference. In short order, Sen. Harry Reid rejected the call to conference.[106]Gabbard voted against the stopgap spending bill that would have delayed the individual mandate.[107]

    The shutdown ended on October 16, 2013, when the House took a vote on HR 2775 after it was approved by the Senate. The bill to reopen the government lifted the $16.7 trillion debt limit and funded the government through January 15, 2014. Federal employees also received retroactive pay for the shutdown period. The only concession made by Senate Democrats was to require income verification for Obamacare subsidies.[108]The House passed the legislation shortly after the Senate, by a vote of 285-144, with all 144 votes against the legislation coming from Republican members. Gabbard voted for HR 2775.[109]

    Gabbard said on September 27, 2013, that "If a common-sense agreement is not reached, our hard-working troops, law enforcement and other essential personnel will continue to report for duty while receiving no pay, leaving their families at home with nothing but uncertainty. I sincerely hope a government shutdown does not occur, but if no deal is struck by next Tuesday, then Members of Congress should not be exempt from its very real, tough consequences."[110]

    Gabbard voted against HR 273 - Eliminates the 2013 Statutory Pay Adjustment for Federal Employees. The bill passed the House on February 15, 2013, with a vote of 261 - 154. The bill called for stopping a 0.5 percent pay increase for all federal workers from taking effect. The raises were projected to cost $11 billion over 10 years.[97]

    Gabbard voted against House Amendment 136 - Prohibits the Enforcement of the Immigration Executive Order. The amendment was adopted by the House on June 6, 2013, with a vote of 224 - 201. The purpose of the amendment as stated on the official text is to "prohibit the use of funds to finalize, implement, administer, or enforce the Morton Memos." These memos would have granted administrative amnesty to certain individuals residing in the United States without legal status. The vote largely followed party lines.[97]

    Gabbard voted against House Amendment 450 - Requires Congressional Approval for Any Rules Under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The amendment was adopted by the House on August 2, 2013, with a vote of 227-185. The amendment requires all changes to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act be approved by Congress before taking effect. The vote was largely along party lines.[97]

    Gabbard voted against HR 2009 - Keep the IRS Off Your Healthcare Act of 2013.The bill passed through the House on August 2, 2013, with a vote of 232-185.The bill would prevent the IRS and Treasury Secretary from enforcing the powers provided to them in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The vote largely followed party lines.[97]

    Gabbard voted in favor of House Amendment 413 - Prohibits the National Security Agency from Collecting Records Under the Patriot Act. The amendment failed on July 4, 2013, by a vote of 205-217.The amendment would have prohibited the collection of records by the National Security Agency under the Patriot Act.Both parties were split on the vote.[97]

    Issues

    ✓ Gabbard endorsed Bernie Sanders for the Democratic primary in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.[111]

    2016 Presidential Endorsements by U.S. Representatives
    RepresentativeCandidateDateSource
    Scott RigellMarco Rubio (primary)Gary Johnson (general)August 2016The New York Times
    Richard HannaHillary ClintonAugust 2016Syracuse.com
    Tom Campbell (California)John Kasich (primary)Gary Johnson (general)July 2016The Washington Post
    Ken BuckTed Cruz (primary)Donald Trump (general)July 2016Facebook
    Nita LoweyHillary ClintonOctober 2014Armonk Daily Voice
    Earl "Buddy" CarterDonald TrumpJuly 2016Savannah Morning News
    Paul GosarTed Cruz (primary)Donald Trump (general)July 2016Dr. Paul Gosar for Congress
    Dan BenishekDonald TrumpJune 2016The Detroit News
    Rodney FrelinghuysenTed Cruz (primary)Donald Trump (general)July 2016Daily Record
    Raul GrijalvaHillary ClintonJune 2016NBC News
    Nancy PelosiHillary ClintonJune 2016The Hill
    Paul RyanDonald TrumpJune 2016Politico
    Jim Jordan (Ohio)Donald TrumpMay 2016Washington Examiner
    Jim BridenstineTed Cruz (primary)Donald Trump (general)May 2016Fox 23 News
    Doug CollinsDonald TrumpMay 2016AJC.com
    Charles Boustany Jr.Donald TrumpMay 2016Republican Party of Louisiana
    John Fleming (Louisiana)Donald TrumpMay 2016Republican Party of Louisiana
    Rick Crawford (Arkansas)Marco Rubio (primary)Donald Trump (general)May 2016KASU
    Ryan ZinkeDonald TrumpMay 2016Washington Examiner
    Albio SiresHillary ClintonMay 2016NJ.com
    Greg WaldenDonald TrumpMay 2016The Hill
    Darrell IssaDonald TrumpMay 2016Los Angeles Times
    Peter KingDonald TrumpMay 2016Newsday.com
    David TrottDonald TrumpMay 2016Detroit Free Press
    Lee ZeldinDonald TrumpMay 2016Newsday.com
    Steven PalazzoDonald TrumpMay 2016MS News Now
    Candice MillerDonald TrumpMay 2016The Hill
    Kevin McCarthyDonald TrumpMay 2016The Atlantic
    Steve ScaliseDonald TrumpMay 2016The Atlantic
    Cathy McMorris RodgersDonald TrumpMay 2016The Atlantic
    Raul LabradorJohn Kasich (primary)Donald Trump (general)May 2016The Atlantic
    John Duncan, Jr.Donald TrumpApril 2016Politico
    Kevin CramerDonald TrumpApril 2016Bismarck Tribune
    Renee EllmersDonald TrumpMarch 2016CBS North Carolina
    Tom ReedDonald TrumpMarch 2016Syracuse.com
    Jeff Miller (Florida)Donald TrumpApril 2016The Hill
    Bill ShusterDonald TrumpApril 2016The Hill
    Scott DesJarlaisDonald TrumpFebruary 2016National Review
    Tom MarinoDonald TrumpFebruary 2016Politico
    Rick NolanBernie SandersApril 2016Politico
    Elijah CummingsHillary ClintonApril 2016The Washington Post
    Reid RibbleTed CruzApril 2016Breitbart News
    Lou BarlettaDonald TrumpMarch 2016The Morning Call
    Ann WagnerTed CruzMarch 2015Politico
    Gwen GrahamHillary ClintonMarch 2016Tallahassee Democrat
    Alan GraysonBernie SandersMarch 2016Politico
    Ben Ray LujanHillary ClintonFebruary 2016CBS News
    Tulsi GabbardBernie SandersFebruary 2016Politico
    Ander CrenshawMarco RubioFebruary 2016Jacksonville.com
    Chris CollinsDonald TrumpFebruary 2016ABC News
    Duncan HunterDonald TrumpFebruary 2016Politico
    Justin AmashTed CruzFebruary 2016The Hill
    Roger Williams (Texas)Ted CruzFebruary 2016Dallas Morning News
    Joe Wilson (South Carolina)Marco RubioFebruary 2016The Post and Courier
    Mark Sanford (South Carolina)Ted Cruz (primary)Donald Trump (general)August 2016The Atlantic
    James ClyburnHillary ClintonFebruary 2016USA Today
    Andrew HarrisBen Carson (primary)Donald Trump (general)May 2016The Baltimore Sun
    Steve WomackMarco RubioFebruary 2016Arkansas Online
    Lynn WestmorelandMarco RubioFebruary 2015Atlanta Journal Constitution
    Matt SalmonMarco RubioFebruary 2015The Arizona Republic
    David PriceHillary ClintonJanuary 2016WNCN
    Mike QuigleyHillary ClintonJanuary 2016Quigley for Congress Facebook page
    Frank PalloneHillary ClintonJanuary 2016PolitickerNJ
    Earl BlumenauerHillary ClintonDecember 2015Earl Blumenauer on Medium
    Michael CapuanoHillary ClintonDecember 2015Boston Globe
    Maxine WatersHillary ClintonNovember 2015The Los Angeles Times
    Jackie SpeierHillary ClintonNovember 2015The Los Angeles Times
    Pete AguilarHillary ClintonNovember 2015The Los Angeles Times
    Jerry McNerneyHillary ClintonNovember 2015The Los Angeles Times
    Anna EshooHillary ClintonNovember 2015The Los Angeles Times
    John YarmuthHillary ClintonNovember 2015Courier-Journal
    Denny HeckHillary ClintonNovember 2015Seattle Times
    Suzan DelBeneHillary ClintonNovember 2015Seattle Times
    Ann KirkpatrickHillary ClintonNovember 2015ABC15
    Gwen MooreHillary ClintonNovember 2015Gwen Moore for Congress
    Corrine BrownHillary ClintonNovember 2015Florida Politics
    Bennie ThompsonHillary ClintonNovember 2015Jackson Free Press
    Seth MoultonHillary ClintonNovember 2015Boston Globe
    Jared HuffmanHillary ClintonOctober 2015Jared Huffman Facebook page
    Paul TonkoHillary ClintonOctober 2015Politico
    Eliot EngelHillary ClintonOctober 2015Politico
    Joe CourtneyHillary ClintonOctober 2015Joe Courtney for Congress
    Bill KeatingHillary ClintonOctober 2015Wareham VillageSoup.com
    Yvette ClarkeHillary ClintonOctober 2015New York Observer
    Bobby Scott (Virginia)Hillary ClintonOctober 2015Richmond Times-Dispatch
    Annie KusterHillary ClintonSeptember 2015Concord Monitor
    Dave LoebsackHillary ClintonSeptember 2015The Des Moines Register
    Cheri BustosHillary ClintonSeptember 2015The Des Moines Register
    Zoe LofgrenHillary ClintonSeptember 2015Zoe Lofgren Facebook page
    Tim WalzHillary ClintonAugust 2015Pioneer Press
    Bonnie Watson ColemanHillary ClintonAugust 2015PolitikerNJ
    Bill PascrellHillary ClintonAugust 2015PolitikerNJ
    Donald Payne, Jr.Hillary ClintonAugust 2015PolitickerNJ
    John GaramendiHillary ClintonAugust 2015John Garamendi Facebook page
    Jim HimesHillary ClintonAugust 2015Hartford Courant
    Xavier BecerraHillary ClintonAugust 2015The Los Angeles Times
    Scott PetersHillary ClintonAugust 2015Scott Peters Facebook page
    Lois CappsHillary ClintonJuly 2015Lois Capps Facebook page
    Marcia FudgeHillary ClintonJuly 2015Cleveland.com
    André CarsonHillary ClintonJuly 2015The Indianapolis Star
    Suzanne BonamiciHillary ClintonJuly 2015Suzanne Bonamici Facebook page
    Niki TsongasHillary ClintonNovember 2015WBUR
    Don BeyerHillary ClintonJune 2015Don Beyer Twitter feed
    Brenda LawrenceHillary ClintonJune 2015The Detroit News
    Matt CartwrightHillary ClintonJune 2015Times News
    William Lacy ClayHillary ClintonJune 2015St. Louis Post-Dispatch
    Elizabeth EstyHillary ClintonJune 2015Fox61
    John LarsonHillary ClintonJune 2015Fox61
    Steve CohenHillary ClintonJune 2015The Commercial Appeal
    Katherine ClarkHillary ClintonAugust 2015MassLive.com
    Jim McGovern (Massachusetts)Hillary ClintonMay 2015MassLive.com
    Joseph Kennedy IIIHillary ClintonMay 2015MassLive.com
    Patrick Murphy (Florida)Hillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Adam SmithHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Derek KilmerHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Gerald ConnollyHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Ruben Hinojosa (Texas congressman)Hillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Mike Thompson (California)Hillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Kathy CastorHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Marc VeaseyHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Julia BrownleyHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Ed PerlmutterHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Henry CuellarHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Jared PolisHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Filemon Vela (Texas U.S. representative)Hillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Eddie Bernice JohnsonHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Jim Cooper (Tennessee)Hillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Kurt SchraderHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Joyce BeattyHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    [[Brad Sherman]]Hillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Sean MaloneyHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Kathleen RiceHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Jose SerranoHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Adam SchiffHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Dan KildeeHillary ClintonMay 2015The Hill
    Emanuel CleaverHillary ClintonApril 2015The Kansas City Star
    Steve IsraelHillary ClintonApril 2015Steve Israel Facebook page
    John Conyers, Jr.Hillary ClintonApril 2015The Daily Caller
    Diana DeGetteHillary ClintonApril 2015Diana DeGette Facebook page
    Rick LarsenHillary ClintonApril 2015Rick Larsen House Website
    Karen BassHillary ClintonApril 2015The Hill
    Jim McDermott (Washington)Hillary ClintonJuly 2015The Hill
    Debbie DingellHillary ClintonJuly 2015The Hill
    Rosa DeLauroHillary ClintonJuly 2015The Hill
    Jerrold NadlerHillary ClintonJuly 2015The Hill
    Nydia VelazquezHillary ClintonApril 2015The Hill
    Mark TakanoHillary ClintonFebruary 2015MSNBC
    Ted LieuHillary ClintonFebruary 2015MSNBC
    Tammy DuckworthHillary ClintonFebruary 2015MSNBC
    Ami BeraHillary ClintonFebruary 2015MSNBC
    Charles RangelHillary ClintonNovember 2014Politico
    Betty McCollumHillary ClintonJune 2014Minnesota Public Radio
    Bill FosterHillary ClintonJune 2014Chicago Tribune
    Robin KellyHillary ClintonJune 2014Chicago Tribune
    Ted DeutchHillary ClintonFebruary 2014Sun Sentinel
    Joseph CrowleyHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The Hill
    Loretta SanchezHillary ClintonJanuary 2015Los Angeles Times
    Lucille Roybal-AllardHillary ClintonJanuary 2015Los Angeles Times
    Grace NapolitanoHillary ClintonJanuary 2015Los Angeles Times
    Frederica WilsonHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Louise SlaughterHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Terri SewellHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    David Scott (Georgia)Hillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Jan SchakowskyHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Cedric RichmondHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Chellie PingreeHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Grace MengHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Gregory MeeksHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Doris MatsuiHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Stephen LynchHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    John Lewis (Georgia)Hillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Sandy LevinHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Jim LangevinHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Sheila Jackson LeeHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Mike HondaHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Brian HigginsHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Alcee HastingsHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Janice HahnHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Gene GreenHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Lois FrankelHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Danny K. DavisHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Joaquin CastroHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    David CicillineHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Hank JohnsonHillary ClintonJanuary 2014The New York Times
    Richard NealHillary ClintonSeptember 2015MassLive
    Mark Meadows (North Carolina)Ted CruzJanuary 2016Asheville Citizen-Times
    Bill Johnson (Ohio)John KasichOctober 2015Kasich for America
    Carolyn MaloneyHillary ClintonNovember 2013CBSNewYork
    Tim Ryan (Ohio)Hillary ClintonNovember 2013Cleveland.com
    Dina TitusHillary ClintonAugust 2013KRNV Reno, NV
    Michael BishopJeb BushNovember 2015The Hill
    Mike Coffman (Colorado)Marco RubioDecember 2015The Denver Post
    Larry BucshonMarco RubioDecember 2015Evansville Courier & Press
    Bill HuizengaMarco RubioDecember 2015The Detroit News
    Markwayne MullinMarco RubioNovember 2015The Hill
    Doug LaMalfaMarco RubioNovember 2015The Hill
    Todd RokitaMarco RubioOctober 2015The Hill
    John MoolenaarMarco RubioSeptember 2015The Hill
    Austin ScottMarco RubioSeptember 2015The Hill
    Thomas RooneyMarco RubioSeptember 2015The Hill
    Susan BrooksChris ChristieDecember 2015Christie2016
    Patrick MeehanChris ChristieJuly 2015The Hill
    Leonard LanceChris ChristieJune 2015NJ.com
    Tom MacArthurChris ChristieJune 2015NJ.com
    Frank LoBiondoChris ChristieJune 2015NJ.com
    Trent FranksMike HuckabeeJanuary 2016Western Journalism
    Charles FleischmannMike HuckabeeSeptember 2015The Washington Post
    Bruce WestermanMike HuckabeeSeptember 2015The Washington Post
    French HillMike HuckabeeSeptember 2015The Washington Post
    Gregg HarperJohn KasichSeptember 2015The Washington Times
    Michael Turner (Ohio)John KasichJuly 2015USA Today
    Steve StiversJohn KasichJuly 2015USA Today
    Tom McClintockTed CruzJanuary 2016The Sacramento Bee
    Dana RohrabacherTed CruzNovember 2015Breitbart
    Jeff FortenberryCarly FiorinaOctober 2015Journal Star
    Alexander MooneyTed CruzJanuary 2016The Hill
    Sam Johnson (Texas congressman)Ted CruzJanuary 2016The Texas Tribune
    Judy ChuHillary ClintonApril 2015The Hill
    G.K. ButterfieldHillary ClintonJanuary 2016The Grio
    Jason ChaffetzMarco RubioJanuary 2016Politico
    Trey GowdyMarco RubioDecember 2015The Hill
    Rob BishopMarco RubioDecember 2015The Salt Lake Tribune
    Linda SanchezHillary ClintonDecember 2015La Opinion
    Barbara ComstockMarco RubioDecember 2015The Washington Post
    Brad AshfordHillary ClintonDecember 2015Journal Star
    Eric SwalwellMartin O'MalleyJuly 2015Roll Call
    Luis GutierrezHillary ClintonDecember 2015Chicago Sun-Times
    Sam GravesTed Cruz (primary)Donald Trump (general)July 2016KSHB
    Ed WhitfieldRand PaulApril 2015Politico
    Patrick TiberiJohn KasichJuly 2015Cincinnati.com
    Randy WeberTed CruzSeptember 2015The Texas Tribune
    Jody HiceTed CruzSeptember 2015The Hill
    Mo BrooksTed CruzNovember 2015AL.com
    John CulbersonTed CruzApril 2015The Hill
    John RatcliffeTed CruzMay 2015The Hill
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    Thomas MassieRand PaulMay 2015Blog4President.us
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    Andy BarrRand PaulMay 2015Politico
    Jaime Herrera BeutlerMarco RubioNovember 2015The Oregonian
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    Pete SessionsJeb BushNovember 2015Jeb! 2016
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    On August 29, 2013, 53 House Democrats signed a letter written by California Rep. Barbara Lee that called for a congressional resolution on strikes and cautioned that the situation in Syria "should not draw us into an unwise war—especially without adhering to our constitutional requirements."[112][113]The letter also called on the Obama administration to work with the U.N. Security Council “to build international consensus” condemning the alleged use of chemical weapons. Gabbard was one of the 53 Democrats in the House to sign the letter.[112][113]

    Elections

    Former Vice President Joe Biden (D) won the presidential election on November 3, 2020. Biden received 306 electoral votes and President Donald Trump (R) received 232 electoral votes. In the national popular vote, Biden received 81.2 million votes and Trump received 74.2 million votes.Gabbard announced that she was running for president on January 11, 2019.[114]She suspended her campaign on March 19, 2020.[115]

    Ballotpedia compiled the following resources about Gabbard and the 2020 presidential election:

    Click here for Gabbard's 2020 presidential campaign overview.

    Incumbent Tulsi Gabbarddefeated Brian Evans in thegeneral election for U.S. House Hawaii District 2 on November 6, 2018.

    General election
    Candidate%Votes
    Tulsi Gabbard(D) 77.4 153,271
    Brian Evans (R) 22.6 44,850

    Incumbents arebolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

    Total votes: 198,121(100.00% precincts reporting)
    = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

    Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

    Incumbent Tulsi Gabbarddefeated Sherry Alu Campagna and Anthony Tony Austin in theDemocratic primary for U.S. House Hawaii District 2 on August 11, 2018.

    Democratic primary election
    Candidate%Votes
    Tulsi Gabbard 83.5 94,629
    Sherry Alu Campagna 12.3 13,947
    Anthony Tony Austin 4.1 4,688

    Incumbents arebolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

    Total votes: 113,264
    = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

    Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

    Brian Evansadvancedfrom theRepublican primary for U.S. House Hawaii District 2 on August 11, 2018.

    Republican primary election
    Candidate%Votes
    Brian Evans 100.0 12,331

    There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source

    Total votes: 12,331
    = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

    Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

    Heading into the election, Ballotpedia rated this race as safely Democratic. Incumbent Tulsi Gabbard (D) defeated Angela Aulani Kaaihue (R) and Richard Turner (Independent) in the general election on November 8, 2016. Gabbard defeated Shay Chan Hodges in the Democratic primary, while Kaaihue defeated Eric Hafner to win the Republican nomination. The primary elections took place on August 13, 2016.[116][117]

    U.S. House, Hawaii District 2 General Election, 2016
    PartyCandidateVote %Votes
    DemocraticTulsi GabbardIncumbent81.2%170,848
    RepublicanAngela Aulani Kaaihue18.8%39,668
    Total Votes210,516
    Source: Hawaii Secretary of State
    U.S. House, Hawaii District 2 DemocraticPrimary, 2016
    CandidateVote %Votes
    Tulsi GabbardIncumbent84.5%80,026
    Shay Chan Hodges15.5%14,643
    Total Votes94,669
    Source: Hawaii Secretary of State
    U.S. House, Hawaii District 2 RepublicanPrimary, 2016
    CandidateVote %Votes
    Angela Aulani Kaaihue55.9%7,449
    Eric Hafner44.1%5,876
    Total Votes13,325
    Source: Hawaii Secretary of State

    Gabbard was rumored as a possible appointee to Daniel Inouye's U.S. Senate seat following his death on December 17, 2012. On December 26, 2012, Governor Neil Abercrombie (D) named his Lieutenant Governor, Brian E. Schatz, to fill the vacancy. She however ran for re-election to her Congressional seat.

    Gabbard defeated challengers Kawika Crowley (R) and Joe Kent (L) in the general election. She ran unopposed in the Democratic primary on August 9, 2014. She defeated[118]The general election took place on November 4, 2014.

    U.S. House, Hawaii District 2 General Election, 2014
    PartyCandidateVote %Votes
    DemocraticTulsi GabbardIncumbent75.8%141,996
    RepublicanKawika Crowley17.9%33,624
    LibertarianJoe Kent2.5%4,692
    Total Votes180,312
    Source: Hawaii Office of Elections

    Gabbard won the 2012 election for the U.S. House, representing Hawaii's 2nd District. She won the nomination on the Democratic ticket after winning the primary on August 11, 2012.[119][120]Incumbent Mazie Hirono vacated the seat, leaving it open. Gabbard defeated Mufi Hannemann, Rafael del Castillo, Esther Kiaaina, Bob Marx and Miles Shiratori in the primary. She then defeated David Crowley (R) and Patric Brock in the general election on November 6, 2012.[121]

    U.S. House, Hawaii District 2 General Election, 2012
    PartyCandidateVote %Votes
    DemocraticTulsi Gabbard76.9%168,503
    RepublicanKawika "David" Crowley18.6%40,707
    n/aBlank Votes4.5%9,952
    Total Votes219,162
    Source: Hawaii Office of Elections "Official Election Results, 2012 General Election"
    U.S. House, Hawaii District 2 Democratic Primary, 2012
    CandidateVote %Votes
    Tulsi Gabbard55.1%62,882
    Mufi Hannemann34.3%39,176
    Esther Kia'Aina5.9%6,681
    Bob Marx3.8%4,327
    Miles Shiratori0.5%573
    Rafael Del Castillo0.5%520
    Total Votes114,159

    Gabbard reportedly received endorsements from VoteVets, EMILY's List and the Sierra Club.[122]

    Gabbard ran for re-election to the Hawaii House of Representatives District 42. She lost in the Democratic primary on September 18, 2004 to Rida Cabanilla.[123]

    Hawaii House of Representatives District 42 Democratic Primary, 2004
    CandidateVote %Votes
    Rida Cabanilla58%1,463
    Tulsi GabbardIncumbent22.9%579
    Blank9%227
    Genaro Bimbo6.3%158
    Gerald Vidal3.8%96
    Total Votes2,523

    Gabbard won election to the Hawaii House of Representatives District 42 in the 2002 general election. She defeated Alfonso Jimenez in the general election on November 5, 2002.[124]

    Hawaii House of Representatives District 42 General Election, 2002
    PartyCandidateVote %Votes
    DemocraticTulsi Gabbard60.7%3,106
    RepublicanAlfonso Jimenez32.9%1,682
    NoneBlank6.4%329
    Total Votes5,117

    Campaign themes

    Affordable housing / High cost of livingOne of the most important issues facing our state is the cost of living.

    Families who've lived here for generations are leaving Hawaii because they can't afford housing and food.The cost of living in Hawaii is amongst the highest in the nation and every day many families struggle just to get by.

    The people of Hawaii need more truly affordable housing. I've long advocated building up--rather than out--on Oahu to make the most of our limited space, preserving as much open space and agricultural land as possible.

    The people of Hawaii are being priced out of the housing market. We've become a playground for the wealthy--condos/homes sell for millions, yet sit empty 90% of the time, and other homes are used as vacation rentals, increasing the price for all of Hawaii's housing.

    Vast shortages of affordable housing nationwide, especially in states like Hawaii, make it increasingly difficult for families with limited resources to find a safe place to live, to put food on the table, and to make basic ends meet.

    One result of this is increasing numbers of homeless individuals and families.In some of Hawaii's more rural communities, homelessness has increased by over 46% in the last two years.

    I'll continue to advocate for more affordable housing units through public and private projects, discouraging housing and land speculation, ensuring "affordable" housing units are actually affordable, and stay that way--not flipped and sold for profit (like the scandal occurring now in Kakaako).

    We need to take action to better serve our most vulnerable populations, by streamlining many of the regulations that burden families in Hawaii and across the country, and increasing flexibility to empower state and local housing agencies, as well as private owners/developers, to develop new housing units, and creating new housing options in areas where housing vouchers are difficult to use.This housing shortage is a crisis that will require every level of government, the private sector, and community taking action towards a solution.

    Campaign Finance ReformCongresswoman Tulsi Gabbard is committed to taking big money superpacs out of politics, and empowering the people.

    Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard is committed to campaign finance reform, taking big money superpacs out of politics, and empowering the people and their voices in our democracy.

    In Congress, Tulsi has co-sponsored legislation like H.R.20, the Government By the People Act, which would give every citizen a voucher worth up to $50 through a "My Voice Tax Credit" for campaign contributions in $5 increments.It also aims to make small donations as influential as large donations by matching any donation on a six-to-one level through the establishment of a Freedom From Influence Fund. For example, if someone gets 30 friends to pledge $50 each, that's $1,500.Then when you put in the 6-to-1 matching contribution multiplier, that's an additional $9,000, bringing the total up to $10,500.

    In Congress, Tulsi will:

    Civil LibertiesTulsi has been a champion for Americans’ civil liberties, and reigning in the NSA’s mass collection of every American’s data.

    Tulsi has been a champion for Americans' civil liberties, and reigning in the NSA's mass collection of every American's data.She has received an A+ rating from Restore the Fourth.

    Protecting Americans’ Privacy

    Tulsi's floor speech calling for defunding NSA dragnet spying on millions of Americans

    Protecting Americans' PrivacyTulsi GabbardHouse Floor SpeechJune 19, 2014

    Our number one priority is keeping the American people safe. We do that by focusing our resources on those who actually pose a threat to our safety while upholding the freedoms and civil liberties of the American people - not by continuing this dragnet spying on millions of Americans.

    There is no evidence to date that those programs have made our country more secure. Not a single tax payer dollar should be used to fund a program that spies on innocent Americans, violating the principals of liberty and freedom that so many have fought and given their lives for.

    COFA migrationBack in 1996, Congress made a misguided decision in passing legislation that took away federal Medicaid benefits for migrants from Micronesia, Palau, and the Marshall Islands.

    Back in 1996, Congress made a misguided decision in passing legislation that took away federal Medicaid benefits for migrants from Micronesia, Palau, and the Marshall Islands. This has placed a major unfunded mandate on the backs of Hawaii taxpayers, with the bill totaling $30 to $40 million a year to pay for health services for COFA migrant families.In May 2015, I joined with Senator Schatz, Senator Hirono, and Rep. Takai in introducing the "Restoring Medicaid for Compact of Free Association Migrants Act." This legislation would reinstate Medicaid benefits for COFA migrants. We need to continue working toward the passage of this legislation to right a wrong that has gone on for far too long. The federal government made a promise to these individuals, and it must uphold that commitment. Another important piece of legislation that I've cosponsored is H.R. 854, the "Compact-Impact Aid Act of 2015." This bill would appropriate $185 million in federal funding to help states, like Hawaii, to help defray costs for providing services to COFA migrants.

    Economy and JobsImproving the economy and creating jobs will always be one of my top priorities.

    We must continue to support our local economy by providing tax credits for businesses that hire workers who have been unemployed for more than six months; eliminate redundant and unnecessary bureaucracy and regulations that make it hard for entrepreneurs and small businesses to start and succeed; end tax breaks for corporations that outsource jobs overseas; reduce payroll taxes for small business owners; and support legislation that provides more access and opportunity to capital for small business owners.

    In Hawaiʻi, small businesses are the heart of our economy and our community. Overall, they represent over 90% of employers and provide jobs for over 50% of our private sector workforce.

    Tulsi GabbardWe must continue to ensure that Hawaii becomes the destination of choice for green energy startups, such as wind, solar, geothermal, ocean thermal, wave, and biofuels technologies. We should provide tax breaks and other incentives for green and high technology businesses to locate here. Such industries not only provide good jobs for our people, but will help us achieve greater energy self-sufficiency.To increase our food production and build up our agricultural base, I continue to support tax breaks and incentives for small farmers so we are less dependent on food imports and move toward a truly sustainable future. I will continue to ensure our tax system incentivizes domestic job creators vs. those exporting jobs to other countries, and fight against destructive trade deals that benefit corporations on the backs of American workers who suffer as a result.

    End the War in SyriaEnd the illegal, counterproductive war to overthrow the Syrian government of Assad

    Tulsi is the leading voice in Congress calling for an end America's interventionist wars of regime change that have cost our nation trillions of dollars and thousands of lives. She has introduced a resolution that would end our illegal and counterproductive war to overthrow the Syrian government of Assad which is creating more devastation, human suffering, and refugees while strengthening terrorist groups like ISIS and al-Qaeda.

    In 2012, the United States began a covert military campaign to overthrow the Syrian government of Assad in alliance with Saudi Arabia, the Gulf States, and Turkey.

    As a result of that regime change war, more than 400,000 Syrians have been killed and millions have fled their homes as refugees.Furthermore, because of the chaos and weakening of Syrian government forces by the United States and our partners, ISIS, al-Qaeda, and other terrorist organizations have been strengthened, presenting an even greater threat to the Middle East and the world.

    Meanwhile, in 2014, the U.S. launched military operations with Kurdish and Syrian Arab forces to defeat ISIS in Syria.

    As a result, the United States is now simultaneously involved in two contradictory wars in Syria.

    The first is the war to defeat ISIS--a war we must take seriously and must win.

    The second is the counterproductive war to overthrow the Syrian government of Assad--an illegal war that Congress has not authorized and which we must end.

    Normally in war, the enemy of our enemy is our friend. But in these contradictory wars in Syria, the enemy of our enemy is our enemy.The absurdity is that the more we are successful in weakening Syrian government forces, the more our enemies like ISIS, al-Qaeda, and other jihadists are strengthened. Every Syrian soldier we and our Saudi partners kill is one less soldier available to fight against ISIS.

    There is no doubt that Assad is a brutal dictator, but common sense tells us that if we want to defeat ISIS and other Islamist extremist groups, we need to immediately end the illegal and counterproductive war to overthrow the Syrian government of Assad. We must focus our efforts one-pointedly on defeating ISIS, as well as al-Qaeda (al-Nusra) and other jihadist groups who have declared war on the United States.

    If we were to end our war against the Syrian government of Assad, then and only then will it be possible for us to defeat ISIS and these other extremist groups.

    EnvironmentTulsi is a lifelong environmentalist who started an environmental non-profit as a teenager, and has a proven record of defending our air, land, and water.

    Tulsi has been endorsed by the Sierra Club, League of Conservation Voters, and Ocean Champions, among others. Tulsi has consistently voted against the keystone pipeline and other forms of environmentally-damaging energy and has voted for efforts to combat climate change, support clean energy, and in other ways protect our fragile environment. That’s why the League of Conservation voters has given Tulsi a “lifetime” pro-environment score of 97% and a score of 100% in 2015.

    Honored with the “Friend of the National Parks” award from the National Parks Conservation Association for her support of the National Park System.Cosponsored HR 4811 (114th), the Coral Reef Sustainability Through Innovation Act of 2016, that would allow federal agencies to award grants to efforts that promote coral reef research and conservation.Cosponsored H.Res. 540 (114th), a resolution expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the policies of the US should support a number of green energy policies, including: a transition to near zero greenhouse gas emissions, 100% clean renewable energy, infrastructure modernization, green jobs, affording energy, and for avoiding adverse impacts of a changing climate.

    We are pleased to endorse Tulsi Gabbard. She’s been a solid champion for Hawai’i families’ health, air, food and water as the Congressional District 2 Representative.

    ROBERT HARRIS, DIRECTOR OF THE SIERRA CLUB OF HAWAII

    Since entering the House, Tulsi Gabbard has been steadfast in rebutting calls to build the Keystone XL pipeline. She’s instead used her leadership platform to advocate for increasing America’s renewable energy supply. She’s also a strong champion for organic agriculture and GMO labeling.

    SIERRA CLUB OF HAWAII

    Tulsi Gabbard is a clear leader on environmental issues. She understands the importance of protecting Hawaii’s special places, and helping preserve our environment for Hawaii’s keiki.

    LUCIENNE DE NAIE, SIERRA CLUB OF HAWAII VICE-CHAIR

    GMO-LabelingTulsi is a leading advocate for mandatory labeling of genetically engineered (GE) food.

    Tulsi is a leading advocate for mandatory labeling of genetically engineered (GE) food. Last year, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard was recognized by Food Policy Action as a top advocate for improving our nation's food system, for her strong support of transparent and sensible food policy. and for fighting against the DARK (Deny Americans the Right to Know) Act.

    Tulsi is an original co-sponsor of H.R. 913, the Genetically Engineered Food Right-to-Know Act, which would require the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to label foods containing genetically-engineered ingredients. H.R. 913 is currently being considered in the House Energy and Commerce committee.Tulsi also co-sponsored the bipartisan Genetically Engineered Food Right-to-Know Act (H.R. 1699).

    Gun ControlTulsi has a consistent record of advocating for sensible gun control.

    Tulsi has a consistent record of advocating for sensible gun control. She has long called for reinstating a federal ban on military-style assault weapons and high capacity magazines, requiring comprehensive pre-purchase background checks, closing the gun-show loophole, and making sure that terrorists are not allowed to buy guns. Tulsi has an F-rating from the NRA, a 0% rating by the Hawaii Rifle Association, and a 100% rating by the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence. She is focused on building bipartisan solutions that can actually be passed into law, rather than using the issue as a partisan political football.

    Tulsi Gabbard on Gun Control Measures

    Tulsi is a cosponsor of H.R. 5087, The Assault Weapons Ban of 2018, which would regulate the importation, manufacture, possession, sale or transfer of assault weapons.

    Tulsi is a cosponsor of H.Res. 367 to Establish the Select Committee on Gun Violence Prevention (2017). This resolution establishes the House Select Committee on Gun Violence Prevention to investigate and report on:

    the causes of mass shootings,methods to improve the federal firearms purchaser background check system,connections between access to firearms and dangerously mentally ill individuals,strengthening federal penalties for trafficking and straw purchasing of firearms,closing loopholes that allow some domestic abusers continued access to firearms,linkages between firearms and suicide,gun violence's effect on public health,the correlation between state gun violence prevention laws and the incidence of gun violence,the importance of having reliable and accurate information on gun violence and its toll on our nation,the implementation of effective gun violence prevention laws in accordance with the Second Amendment to the Constitution, andrates of gun violence in large metropolitan areas.Tulsi is a cosponsor of H.R. 3947, The Automatic Gunfire Prevention Act (2017), which makes it illegal for any person to import, sell, manufacture, transfer, or possess a trigger crank, a bump-fire device, or any accessory that is designed to accelerate the rate of fire of a semiautomatic rifle.

    Tulsi is a cosponsor of H.R.3999 (2017). This bill amends Title 18 of the United States Code to prohibit the manufacture, possession, or transfer of any part or combination of parts that is designed to increase the rate of fire of a semiautomatic rifle, but does not convert the semiautomatic rifle into a machine gun.

    Tulsi is a cosponsor of H.R. 2670, The Protecting Domestic Violence and Stalking Victims Act (2017), which would protect more victims of domestic violence by preventing their abusers from possessing or receiving firearms.

    Tulsi is a cosponsor of H.Res. 370 to Amend the Rules of the House of Representatives to require that a standing committee hearing be held whenever there is a moment of silence in the House for a tragedy involving gun violence (2017). This resolution would also require the Speaker, whenever a moment of silence related to a tragedy in the United States or its territories involving gun violence occurs on the floor of the House, to announce on the next legislative day the standing committee or subcommittee designated to hold a hearing on the event.

    Tulsi is a cosponsor of H.R.4365, The Domestic Violence Loophole Closure Act (2017). The bill requires the prompt reporting for national instant criminal background check system purposes of members of the Armed Forces convicted of domestic violence offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

    Tulsi voted against H.R.38, The Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017. This bill amends the federal criminal code to allow individuals to carry a concealed handgun into another state that allows individuals to carry concealed firearms. The bill specifies that a qualified individual who lawfully carries or possesses a concealed handgun in another state is not subject to the federal prohibition on possessing a firearm in a school zone, and may carry or possess the concealed handgun in federally owned lands that are open to the public.

    Tulsi voted against H.J.Res.40 (2017) to provide for congressional disapproval under Chapter 8 of Title 5 of the United States Code of the rule submitted by the Social Security Administration relating to Implementation of the NICS Improvement Amendments Act of 2007. This joint resolution nullifies the "Implementation of the NICS Improvement Amendments Act of 2007" rule finalized by the Social Security Administration on December 19, 2016. The rule implements a plan to provide to the National Instant Criminal History Background Check System the name of an individual who meets certain criteria, including that benefit payments are made through a representative payee because the individual is determined to be mentally incapable of managing them.

    Infrastructure

    Like most of the country, Hawaii’s infrastructure needs are great.

    Last year, Congress came together to pass a long overdue transportation and infrastructure bill that reauthorized critical funding for our highways, bridges and other infrastructure, transportation safety, and public transit projects in Hawaii and across the country for the next 5 years. We must continue to ensure the federal government prioritizes its' investment in infrastructure, especially at our airports.

    I continue to work with key stakeholders as we make progress toward opening a second international port for Hawaii in Kona, which would be key to revitalizing Kona's tourism economy, but would also ensure that our state has an alternative should Honolulu International Airport face an emergency of some sort.

    LGBT/Marriage EqualitySince being elected to Congress, Tulsi has consistently fought for LGBT and marriage equality.

    As a member of the LGBT Equality Caucus in the House, Tulsi has advocated for LGBT Housing/Privacy rights, to end bullying and harassment in schools and has co-sponsored numerous bills including the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, the Respect for Marriage Act, the Healthy Families Act, the Equality Act and the Safe Schools Improvement Act. She has been endorsed by the Human Rights Campaign (View endorsements).

    Standing Up for LGBT Rights and Marriage EqualityI believe that equal treatment and opportunity are fundamental rights for all Americans. Discrimination on the basis of national origin, sexual orientation, disability, religious belief, gender, or race undermines core American principles of respect and individual freedom. We have an obligation to fight against discrimination, whatever the form. I will continue to work with partners at the federal, state, and local level to ensure all individuals are treated equally under the law regardless of race, sex, religion, age, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

    The government should not deny those in same-sex relationships the right to marry and enjoy the same benefits, rights, and responsibilities as opposite-sex married couples. Government and political leaders like myself should have no place in determining the most personal aspects of our lives. Government officials should not have the power to declare one relationship ‘morally’ superior to another. As long as the government administers marriages and its benefits, it must remain neutral and treat all Americans as equal.

    -TULSI GABBARD

    'Medicare and Social SecurityTulsi is committed to protecting Medicare and Social Security.

    Tulsi is committed to protecting Medicare and Social Security, preserving the safety net that cares for those most in need. The Alliance for Retired Americans gave Gabbard a 93% grade because she has voted/pledged to protect social security from privatization.

    Native Hawaiian IssuesThe US overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893 is a great injustice.

    I'm honored to have spent time working with my mentor and friend, Senator Daniel K. Akaka.The first Native Hawaiian elected to the United States Congress, Senator Akaka passed the Apology Resolution which acknowledges the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii and acknowledges that the Native Hawaiian people never directly relinquished their claims to inherent sovereignty as a people.

    On the path forward, regardless of the mechanism or process in getting there, Native Hawaiians, as a people, should be empowered to determine their own future and what kind of relationship they choose to have with the U.S. federal government.

    The challenge we continue to face in Congress is a failure by many to recognize Native Hawaiians as indigenous people.Native Hawaiian services and programs are constantly under attack.It's important for us to work together, to find the path forward that best serves the interests of current and future generations of Native Hawaiians.

    Net NeutralityTulsi has been fighting to keep the internet open and available to all.

    Tulsi has fought to keep the internet open and available to all, co-sponsoring legislation that prohibits multi-tiered pricing agreements for the privileged few.

    Red HillThe 27,000-gallon fuel spill which occurred at Red Hill in 2013 remains an issue of great concern.

    The 27,000-gallon fuel spill which occurred at Red Hill in 2013 remains an issue of great concern due to the risk this, and the potential for future leaks/spills, have on one of our main aquifers serving over 25% of Oahu.The finalized agreement between Department of Health, EPA, and the Navy is woefully inadequate.

    The Red Hill fuel storage facility was built during a critical time during World War II, and has supplied fuel for military operations in the Pacific since 1943. However, the reality is today, no such underground fuel storage facility would ever be allowed to be built over a water aquifer.

    While there are many concerns with the current plan, there are 4 primary issues that must be addressed by the Parties to the AOC:

    1. Advanced leak detection and corrosion prevention

    Existing leak detection practices are insufficient and inadequate to prevent another leakage of thousands of gallons of fuel into our aquifer.There should be hourly inspections of fuel levels in all tanks, automated systems that sound alarms upon any change in fuel levels, and an expedited plan to empty a tank as soon as a leak is detected, to prevent further fuel leaks from the tanks and potential groundwater contamination.

    2. Install secondary containment/double-lining or better

    The Navy has conducted multiple studies, including two in 1998 and 2008 that reached the same conclusion: To keep our water safe, we must double-line the fuel tanks.Moreover, beginning next year, the EPA will require all new underground fuel storage tanks to be secondarily contained. Rather than conduct yet another study, we should move forward quickly with providing this essential level of protection through secondary containment.

    3. Address the fuel that's already been spilled

    No real remediation attempt has been made to identify exactly where this fuel went, how much got into the water, or how much has been soaked into the bedrock which separates the tanks from the aquifer.Multiple tests have confirmed that leaked fuel is in the groundwater underneath Red Hill.All efforts should be made to clean the contaminated groundwater and ensure the bedrock doesn't serve as a continued source of pollution.

    4. Cost

    Cost-considerations related to improvements and clean-up must not compromise the end result.The Navy and DLA are concerned about the total cost of improvements to the existing facility or relocation of the tanks.What must be understood, however, is that if immediate action is not taken, the costs of contaminated ground water clean-up, and the resulting hardship for Oahu residents would be infinitely greater.

    Conclusion:

    It's critical that the Navy reconsider alternative fuel storage options in Hawaii and the Asia-Pacific region that would decrease overall risk to our groundwater, and provide potential cost-savings in the long run.If relocation is not feasible, then, at a minimum, the Navy should immediately take action to eliminate the constant threat of fuel contamination to Oahu's drinking water resources.

    As the most isolated island chain in the world, the necessity to protect our water resources in Hawaii cannot be overstated. The actions we take now not only impact the health and safety of our current generations, but every generation to come.

    Renewable EnergyWe need to continue to seek ways to grow Hawaii’s renewable energy industry, while also attracting high-tech jobs to Hawaii.

    Hawai`i has quickly become a national and world leader in advancing renewable energy. In 2015, our state made huge strides when we became the first state in the country to establish a law to set a goal of reaching 100% renewable energy by 2045. Hawai`i Island is already near 50%.

    Our state is blessed with incredible renewable energy resources, such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal, which we must harness to leave fossil fuels behind. I will continue my work to ensure that Hawai`i becomes the destination of choice for green energy startups, including wind, solar, biomass, and wave energy technology. I will continue to work to provide tax and other incentives for green and high technology businesses to locate in Hawai`i.

    In Congress, I'm advocating for our federal government to follow the path of Hawai`i by adopting a federal standard for renewable energy in order to make this transition at a quicker pace. We should also extend the wind production tax credit and solar investment tax credit to support the clean energy economy across our country.We should eliminate federal subsidies of the vastly profitable fossil fuel industry. Divestment from fossil fuels is the way of the future, and I'm hopeful that more of our businesses, universities, and retirement systems will choose this path.

    The "war on terror"Tulsi outlines four things we must do in order to defeat ISIS and other jihadist groups that have declared war on the United States.

    To defeat ISIS and other jihadist groups that have declared war on the United States, we must do four things:

    1. We must immediately end the illegal and counterproductive war to overthrow the Syrian government of Assad.There is no question that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is a brutal dictator. However, we must focus on defeating our enemy, ISIS, al-Qaeda and other terrorist organizations--not engage in another failed attempt at regime change like we did in Iraq and Libya. As long as we continue to be distracted by the war to overthrow Assad and continue to strengthen our enemies by weakening the Syrian government, we will not be able to defeat ISIS, al-Qaeda (al-Nusra), and other jihadist groups who have declared war on the United States. Only if we end our war against the Syrian government of Assad will it be possible to defeat ISIS and other jihadist groups.

    Rep. Tulsi Gabbard on CNN's The Situation Room w/ Wolf Blitzer - September 30, 2015 [2/2]

    2. We must defeat ISIS militarily.To defeat ISIS, we must work with and support trusted partners on the ground, such as the Kurds, Syrian Arabs, and non-ISIS Sunni Iraqi tribes.Sending large numbers of US troops into Syria or Iraq would be a very bad idea as it would play directly into ISIS rhetoric characterizing their genocidal mission as a war between the west and Islam, and fuel ISIS’ recruitment activities.

    By working with local partners on the ground, providing advice and air support, along with Special Forces teams who can launch quick strike missions, we can overwhelm ISIS, al-Qaeda, and other terrorist organizations and have in place local elements securing and governing the territory retaken.

    It is encouraging that President Obama has recently begun exploring ways for the U.S. and Russia to work together to defeat ISIS. It is critical that we remain willing to ally with Russia, Syrian forces, the Kurdish Peshmerga, and any other forces that are willing to fight against our common enemy.

    It is encouraging that President Obama has recently begun exploring ways for the U.S. and Russia to work together to defeat ISIS. It is critical that we remain willing to ally with Russia, Syrian forces, the Kurdish Peshmerga, and any other forces that are willing to fight against our common enemy.

    We formed such distasteful alliances during WWII— working, for instance, with Stalin--which proved essential to defeating Hitler’s Nazi Germany—and now we must be willing to ally with Russia and others with whom we share a common enemy in ISIS, al-Qaeda, and other terrorist organizations that have declared war on civilization.

    We need to stop trying to create mini-America style centralized governments in the Middle East. We tried this in Iraq, but it’s clear that this has only led to a nation that exists in name only due to the Kurds and Sunnis continued persecution and domination by the Shia-led government. Similarly, we will not be able to bring about a unified government in Syria, which is a lot more divided and chaotic than Iraq ever was. And as long as the civil wars continue, ISIS, al-Qaeda, and other terrorist groups will remain and continue to grow stronger and more of a global threat.

    Once the U.S. and our allies stop trying to overthrow the Syrian government of Assad, then we can immediately focus our efforts one-pointedly on defeating ISIS, al-Qaeda, and the other terrorist organizations in a coordinated, cooperative fashion with Russia, the Syrian government, the Kurds, Sunni tribes, France, and the UK.

    3. There must be a political solution.We must encourage and support the creation of semi-autonomous regions in the areas now called Syria and Iraq so that the various sects—the Sunnis, Shiites, and Kurds—are able to take care of their own governance and security. The dominance and persecution of one sect over another in Iraq is part of what allows ISIS and other Islamist organizations to gain a foothold there. As a result, arriving at a political solution that minimizes sectarian conflict is key to preventing ISIS and other terrorist organizations from continuing to spread and grow.

    4. We must defeat ISIS and other Islamist militants ideologically.In order to defeat the enemy, we need to clearly identify them. We must defeat them in the ideological war, not just on the battlefield. In order to defeat their ideology, we need to recognize what their ideology is.

    The ideology that inspires those fighting for ISIS, al-Qaeda, al-Nusra and other jihadist organizations is loosely referred to as “Islamism” and can be more specifically identified as Wahhabism. It is the ideology promoted and spread primarily by Saudi Arabia teaching that anyone who does not accept that particular interpretation of Islam must be converted, killed, or in other ways punished. On the Islamists’ list of those who must be killed or punished are Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, atheists, and followers of other Muslim sects such as Shias, Sufis, and non-Wahhabist Sunnis.

    This radical Wahhabist ideology attracts and motivates recruits who are taught that killing “non-believers” is a religious obligation and that any martyr who dies while killing non-believers will be rewarded in heaven.

    The United States must use its leverage to pressure Saudi Arabia to stop spreading the Wahhabist extremist ideology through schools and mosques around the world, including in the U.S. We must stop arms sales and any other assistance to Saudi Arabia or other Gulf States involved in promoting and financing this jihadist ideology.

    The U.S. must stop treating as “allies” countries that are promoting the Wahhabist ideology that is at the root of so much suffering worldwide.

    By calling terrorists like al-Qaeda and ISIS “Islamic extremists” we are making a distinction between the vast majority of Muslims who are not extremists and a handful of those who are extremists. This is the best way to show our respect to peaceful Muslims around the world.

    Tulsi's position was recently confirmed by a well-respected Muslim activist in Pakistan:

    Congresswoman Gabbard is absolutely on the mark in presenting an outline of a policy that should clearly identify Salafi-Wahhabi and Deobandi ideology as the ideology of hate and terror, worse than even Nazism, because it is much more violent. It will also ease the pressure on the common Muslims who can publicly disassociate themselves from these cults. The clear identification of terrorist ideology will actually be a blessing for ordinary Muslims who will whole heartedly join government efforts in rooting out this violent and hateful ideology from the country, and hopefully, the world.

    LET US BUILD PAKISTAN: HTTPS://LUBPAK.COM/ARCHIVES/349466

    Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)The Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal is a bad deal for the American people.

    We cannot allow this agreement to forsake the American middle class, while foreign governments are allowed to devalue their currency and artificially prop-up their industries.

    The Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal is a bad deal for the American people.This historically massive trade deal -- accounting for 40 percent of global trade -- would reduce restrictions on foreign corporations operating within the U.S., limit our ability to protect our environment, and create more incentives for U.S. businesses to outsource investments and jobs overseas to countries with lower labor costs and standards.

    Over and over we hear from TPP proponents how the TPP will boost our economy, help American workers, and set the standards for global trade.The International Trade Commission report released last May (https://www.usitc.gov/publications/332/pub4607.pdf) confirms that the opposite is true.In exchange for just 0.15 percent boost in GDP by 2032, the TPP would decimate American manufacturing capacity, increase our trade deficit, ship American jobs overseas, and result in losses to 16 of the 25 U.S. economic sectors. These estimates don't even account for the damaging effects of currency manipulation, environmental impacts, and the agreement's deeply flawed Investor State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) process.

    There's no reason to believe the provisions of this deal relating to labor standards, preserving American jobs, or protecting our environment, will be enforceable. Every trade agreement negotiated in the past claimed to have strong enforceable provisions to protect American jobs -- yet no such enforcement has occurred, and agreements like the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) have resulted in the loss of hundreds of thousands of American jobs. Former Secretary of Labor Robert Reich has called TPP "NAFTA on steroids." The loss of U.S. jobs under the TPP would likely be unprecedented.

    The American people have been left out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership from the beginning and the results show. From an ISDS process that allows foreign corporations to overrule our domestic rule of law, to unenforceable labor and environmental protections, to no protections against currency manipulation, this deal helps the corporate class while selling out working Americans and their families. The American people deserve a better future that empowers our middle class and domestic economy; that protects people and our planet.

    Tulsi GabbardAs the gateway to Asia and the Pacific, jobs in Hawaii will be among the first to be affected. Skilled workers in Hawaii and across America won't be able to compete against international minimum wages in many of the countries that are part of the TPP, some of which are below $3 a day for labor.

    Core to our nation's democracy, is our sovereignty and our ability to set and enforce our own standards and laws. The Investor State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) process gives enormous power to foreign corporations and negates our domestic rule of law.Foreign corporations should not have rights in any country that supersede the rights of local citizens and the law of the land.A tribunal of three trade lawyers who have the power to make judgments about the legitimacy of sovereign environmental, public health, or national security law and decisions goes against the foundation of our democracy.

    In the last few months alone, we have seen evidence of the danger of ISDS: Last year the Administration chose to reject the Keystone Pipeline XL on environmental grounds.Now, using ISDS, TransCanada is suing the U.S. Government for more than $15 billion to compensate them not only for expenses, but also projected profits. Best case scenario: The U.S. wins this suit after spending tens of millions of taxpayer dollars defending ourselves, making it much harder for future administrations to make courageous environmental decisions.Worst case scenario:We lose the case, taxpayers fork over $15 billion, and our sovereignty and domestic rule of law is completely undermined. Future leaders will be forced to think twice about rejecting a corporate project on environmental grounds.

    Rep Tulsi Gabbard Reaffirms Opposition to Harmful Trans Pacific Trade Deal

    I'm going to do everything I can to oppose this trade deal that will have devastatingly negative impacts on the American people and our domestic economy.

    Tulsi GabbardThis deal promises free trade but does nothing to address currency manipulation.At least 5 million American jobs were lost in the last decade as a result of currency manipulation by our trading partners.A few months of unfair currency practices can decimate an entire U.S. industry. The American steel, aluminum, and auto manufacturing sectors cannot survive another shock from aggressive foreign currency devaluation. The United Auto Workers estimate that U.S. vehicles cost up to $5,000 dollars more in certain markets because of currency manipulation.

    We cannot allow this agreement to forsake the American middle class, while foreign governments are allowed to devalue their currency and artificially prop-up their industries. Foreign government-supported industries are already dumping huge amounts of artificially cheap steel into the United States, causing American steel companies to struggle to survive.This is not just about changing economies.This agreement will allow foreign governments to openly cheat the system, while we tell American workers to "retrain" and find another line of work.

    Because of these and other concerns in the TPP, I will continue to do all that I can to defeat this legislation if and when it comes before Congress for a yea or nay vote.

    Universal HealthcareAll Americans should have access to affordable healthcare.

    Our present healthcare system is organized by and for the benefit of big insurance and pharmaceutical companies and not the American people. This must change.

    While the Affordable Care Act was a step towards insuring roughly 20 million Americans, many issues remain with the Affordable Care Act, including escalating costs and high copayments/deductibles. Most importantly, 27 million Americans are still uninsured.All Americans should have access to affordable healthcare through Medicare or a public option. We must ensure universal healthcare and empower the government to negotiate with pharmaceutical companies to bring down the price of prescription drugs.

    Veterans & Armed ForcesAs a nation, we owe a great debt to our veterans. It is an obligation and responsibility that I take very seriously.

    There are more than 116,000 veterans in Hawai`i, and even though we span generations and different conflicts, we are all one family. The bond between veterans, and the camaraderie that exists among those who have worn the uniform and served, is something very special, different from anything I've ever known. Two veterans, who have never met, can look each other in the eye and know exactly what sacrifice the other has gone through, without even saying a word.

    I honor the brave men and women who served and continue to serve in our military, and who risk their lives to protect the freedoms we all enjoy as Americans. As a captain in the Hawai`i National Guard who served two combat tours in the Middle East, I know firsthand the sacrifices our warriors make to protect and defend our great nation. It is my great honor and privilege to stand with and serve with such heroes.

    As a nation, we owe a great debt to our veterans. It is an obligation and responsibility that I take very seriously.

    Tulsi GabbardAs a nation, we owe a great debt to our veterans. It is an obligation and responsibility that I take very seriously. In between tours of duty, I worked as an aide to Senator Akaka in Washington D.C. One of my chief areas of responsibility was Veterans' Affairs issues. I experienced firsthand how the decisions our leaders make in Washington have a direct impact on the lives of our veterans, their families and loved ones. I want all veterans to know that in me, they have a fellow veteran who will champion and advocate for them, and will never stop fighting for them and their families.

    Rep Tulsi Gabbard: Honoring Veterans, need to go beyond lip-service to action

    Tulsi Gabbard

    After leaving the battlefield, veterans continue to face unique challenges even after they come home. Unemployment, disabilities, health care, homelessness, and depression are among a few of the daunting obstacles confronting them.

    Therefore, I support President Obama's efforts to incentivize businesses to hire veterans, and his support of military families. I also support efforts to improve the GI Bill to allow veterans to develop skills that will help them in the workplace. And I will steadfastly oppose any efforts to cut funding for any programs designed to support service members, veterans, and their families.

    Fighting for Health Care for Veterans

    Mr. Speaker, if your son or daughter, your brother or sister was sick and needed care but couldn’t see a doctor for 3 months or 6 months, or maybe over a year, wouldn’t you take an immediate action? Do whatever it took to make sure that they were cared for? As we stand here today, over a hundred thousand veterans: our sons and daughters, our brothers and sisters in Hawaii and across the country have been waiting months just to see a doctor. In Honolulu veterans wait an average of a 145 days, sometimes longer, just to see a primary care physician for the very first time. This is infuriating to me, and it’s unconscionable that our veterans are treated this way when they come home.

    Tulsi Gabbard, on the House FloorAt the peak of the VA crisis, when it was clear that our veterans needed immediate access to physicians and that it was simply not acceptable to wait for all the systemic problems with the VA to be fixed before we addressed health care access, Tulsi introduced bipartisan legislation allowing veterans immediate access to private physicians, and advocated nationally, calling for this immediate change to allow for this access. Congress passed bipartisan VA health reform legislation into law in record time, which included a provision, based on Tulsi's proposal, to allow veterans access to private health care.

    Veterans Embody the Value of Selfless ServiceRecognizing the value that veterans bring to our community is so very important. Veterans have had a unique experience; they have actually been ready to sacrifice their lives for our country. Veterans embody the value of selfless service and sacrifice. And no matter what their job was in the military, veterans bring with them the ability to work as a member of the team to accomplish the task at hand, the discipline to stay with a task until it's successfully completed, and the determination to persevere no matter how difficult the assignment. As elected officials, employers, and as a state and country, it is crucial that we uphold our end of the bargain and ensure that our veterans have all the tools and benefits they need to be successful now that they have returned to civilian life.

    Wall Street ReformTulsi has been a strong advocate for Wall Street reform, including breaking up the big banks and reinstating the Glass-Steagall Act.

    Tulsi believes Americans should have peace of mind knowing that the health of their mortgage, retirement plan, or even salary isn’t tied to a roll of the dice on Wall Street.

    Fighting the Bail-out of Big Banks

    There are two kinds of people serving in Congress: Those who are serving the interests of the American people, and those who are serving the interests of the big banks and Wall Street speculators.

    Tulsi GabbardHere are some of the most important steps we need to take to protect our economy:

    Break up the big banks - Banks that are “too big to fail” are simply too big. As long as individual banks hold such a huge portion of our economy, then we are bound to be faced with having to bail out the giant banks again. This will devastate our economy.Restore the Glass Steagall Act - For decades, the Glass Steagall Act protected the public by separating risky investment banking and commercial banking. Had this common sense regulation not been repealed, we never would have faced the economic hardship that we do today. Without this healthy separation, greed leads bankers to leverage available funds for the highest profit potential - and often riskiest investments.Ban naked credit defaults - Naked credit defaults are a form of excessive speculation that put our financial markets in a position of unnecessary and unhealthy risk. As a form of gambling, naked credit defaults have no place in our banking system.Tulsi is a co-sponsor of H.R.3711 - 21st Century Glass-Steagall Act of 2013

    Women’s RightsTulsi has a 100% voting record with both Planned Parenthood and NARAL.

    A Woman's Right to ChooseTulsi is committed to defending a woman’s right to choose, which government has no place infringing on. She has a 100% voting record with both Planned Parenthood and NARAL.

    Tulsi’s commitment to upholding America’s promise to support our veterans, equal pay for women, and her bold advocacy for ending the war in Afghanistan in order to reinvest that money to create jobs here at home make her the voice of fresh leadership we need in Washington now more than ever.

    Gen. Claudia KennedyEqual PayTulsi strongly believes women are long overdue to receive equal pay for equal work, and has supported legislation to level the playing field such as H.R.377 - Paycheck Fairness Act

    [125]

    The following issues were listed on Gabbard's campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here.

    [125]

    Campaign donors


    Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.


    Tulsi Gabbard campaign contribution history
    YearOfficeResultContributions
    2018U.S. House Hawaii District 2$1,390,665
    2016U.S. House, Hawaii District 2$2,169,148
    2014U.S. House (Hawaii, District 2)$1,670,401
    Grand total raised$5,230,214

    Source: Follow the Money

    U.S. House Hawaii District 2 2018 election - Campaign Contributions
    Top industry contributors to Tulsi Gabbard's campaign in 2018
    Health$51,931.00
    General Business$36,719.00
    Finance, Insurance & Real Estate$31,440.00
    Communications & Electronics$29,676.00
    Construction$15,791.00
    Total Raised in 2018$1,390,665.42
    Source: Follow the Money
    U.S. House Hawaii District 2 2018 election - Campaign Contributions
    Top individual contributors to Tulsi Gabbard's campaign in 2018
    LALWANI, MANAV$5,410.00
    GOLDHABER, MARILYN$5,400.00
    RAJ, DEEPAK D$5,400.00
    SAVANI, BHASKAR M$5,400.00
    BARAI, BHARAT H$5,400.00
    Total Raised in 2018$1,390,665.42
    Source: Follow the Money

    Gabbard won re-election to the U.S. House in 2016. During that election cycle, Gabbard's campaign committee raised a total of $2,169,148 and spent $1,126,581.[127]This is less than the average $1.46 million spent by U.S. House winners in 2016.[128]

    Gabbard spent $6.59 per general election vote received in 2016.

    U.S. House, Hawaii District 2, 2016 - Tulsi Gabbard Campaign Contributions
    Total Raised$2,169,148
    Total Spent$1,126,581
    Total Raised by Election Runner-up$0
    Total Spent by Election Runner-up$0
    Top contributors to Tulsi Gabbard's campaign committee
    Navatek Ltd$16,710
    Almex Usa$15,200
    Upcountry Fitness$12,200
    Mosaic Media Group$10,800
    American Spraytech LLC$10,750
    Top 5 industries that contributed to campaign committee
    Health Professionals$94,111
    Democratic/Liberal$61,808
    Real Estate$60,185
    Retired$53,343
    Building Trade Unions$46,000
    Source: Open Secrets

    Gabbard won re-election to the U.S. House in 2014. During that election cycle, Gabbard's campaign committee raised a total of $1,670,401 and spent $857,985.[129]This is less than the average $1.45 million spent by House winners in 2014.[130]

    Gabbard spent $6.04 per general election vote received in 2014.

    U.S. House, Hawaii District 2, 2014 - Tulsi Gabbard Campaign Contributions
    Total Raised$1,670,401
    Total Spent$857,985
    Total Raised by Election Runner-up$0
    Total Spent by Election Runner-up$0
    Top contributors to Tulsi Gabbard's campaign committee
    Navatek Ltd$15,500
    Nan Inc$15,200
    Vedanta Capital$12,900
    Time Warner Cable$12,000
    State of Hawaii$11,750
    Top 5 industries that contributed to campaign committee
    Securities & Investment$77,007
    Health Professionals$66,109
    Real Estate$59,935
    Lawyers/Law Firms$57,707
    Retired$57,003
    To view the breakdown of campaign funding by type click [show] to expand the section.
    Breakdown of the source of Gabbard's campaign funds before the 2014 election.

    Below are Gabbard's FEC reports.[131]

    Tulsi Gabbard (2014) Campaign Finance Reports
    ReportDate FiledBeginning BalanceTotal Contributionsfor Reporting PeriodExpendituresCash on Hand
    April Quarterly[132]April 15, 2013$312,383.30$84,360.10$(75,875.34)$320,868.06
    July Quarterly[133]July 15, 2013$32,088.06$150,232.31$(50,505.33)$410,495.04
    October Quarterly[134]October 13, 2013$410,495.04$276,944.85$(75,342.14)$612,097.75
    Year-end[135]January 31, 2014$612,097$319,491$(117,516)$814,072
    April Quarterly[136]April 15, 2014$814,072$274,697$(216,306)$872,463
    July QuarterlyJuly 15, 2014$872,463$238,105$(147,072)$964,611
    Running totals
    $1,343,830.26$(682,616.81)

    Gabbard won election to the U.S. House in 2012. During that election cycle, Gabbard's campaign committee raised a total of $1,772,211 and spent $1,451,619.[137]This is less than the average $1.5 million spent by House winners in 2012.[138]

    Gabbard spent $8.61 per vote received in 2012.

    U.S. House, Hawaii District 2, 2012 - Tulsi Gabbard Campaign Contributions
    Total Raised$1,772,211
    Total Spent$1,451,619
    Total Raised by Election Runner-upN/A
    Total Spent by Election Runner-upN/A
    Top contributors to Tulsi Gabbard's campaign committee
    EMILY's List$29,711
    Mitsunaga & Assoc$19,900
    Environet Inc$15,300
    State of Hawaii$13,320
    Coastal Construction Group$12,500
    Top 5 industries that contributed to campaign committee
    Retired$80,963
    Construction Services$56,200
    Women's Issues$51,911
    Lawyers/Law Firms$46,028
    Real Estate$45,054
    To view the breakdown of campaign funding by type click [show] to expand the section.
    Breakdown of the source of Gabbard's campaign funds before the 2012 election.

    Gabbard led all 2nd Congressional District candidates in fundraising in the second quarter of 2012, according to contribution reports filed with the Federal Election Commission.[139]Gabbard’s campaign raised $320,505 from April 1 through June 30, outpacing former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann’s campaign, which closed the quarter with 252,392 in contributions.[139]Gabbard's total included a $10,000 personal loan to her campaign.[139]

    Personal Gain Index

    ThePersonal Gain Index (U.S. Congress)is a two-part measurement that illustrates the extent to which members of the U.S. Congress have prospered during their tenure as public servants.It consists of two different metrics:

    Based on congressional financial disclosure forms and calculations made available by OpenSecrets.org, Gabbard's net worth as of 2012 was estimated between $45,014 and $776,998. That averages to$411,006,which is lower than the average net worth of Democratic representatives in 2012 of $5,700,168.36. Gabbard ranked as the 292nd most wealthy representative in 2012.[140]Between 2011 and 2012, Gabbard's calculated net worth[141]increased by an average of 15 percent per year. Between 2004 and 2012, the average annual percentage increase for a member of Congress was 15.4 percent.[142]

    Tulsi Gabbard Yearly Net Worth
    YearAverage Net Worth
    2011$358,780
    2012$411,006
    Growth from 2011 to 2012:15%
    Average annual growth:15%[143]
    Comparatively, theAmerican citizenexperienced a median yearly decline in net worth of-0.94%.[144]

    The data used to calculate changes in net worth may include changes resulting from assets gained through marriage, inheritance, changes in family estates and/or trusts, changes in family business ownership, and many other variables unrelated to a member's behavior in Congress.

    Filings required by the Federal Election Commission report on the industries that give to each candidate. Using campaign filings and information calculated by OpenSecrets.org, Ballotpedia calculated the percentage of donations by industry received by each incumbent over the course of his or her career (or 1989 and later, if elected prior to 1988). Gabbard received the most donations from individuals and PACs employed by the Retired industry.

    From 2011-2014,16.45 percent of Gabbard's career contributions came from the top five industries as listed below.[145]

    Tulsi Gabbard Campaign Contributions
    Total Raised$3,128,003
    Total Spent$2,142,677
    Top five industries that contributed to campaign committee
    Retired$139,266
    Lawyers/Law Firms$102,485
    Real Estate$99,939
    Women's Issues$87,418
    Construction Services$85,353
    % total in top industry4.45%
    % total in top two industries7.73%
    % total in top five industries16.45%

    Analysis

    Based on an analysis of bill sponsorship by GovTrack, Gabbard was a centrist Democratic follower as of July 29, 2014. This was the same rating Gabbard received in June 2013.[146]

    The website OpenCongress tracks the voting records of each member to determine with whom he or she votes most and least often. The results include a member from each party.[147]

    Gabbard most often votes with:

    Gabbard least often votes with:

    According to the website GovTrack, Gabbard missed 49 of 1,723 roll call votes from January 2013 to September 2015. This amounted to 2.8 percent, which was higher than the median of 2.2 percent among representatives as of September 2015.[148]

    Each year National Journal publishes an analysis of how liberally or conservatively each member of Congress voted in the previous year.

    Gabbard ranked 165th in the liberal rankings in 2013.[149]

    Information on 2012 vote rating is unavailable.

    The website OpenCongress tracks how often members of Congress vote with the majority of the chamber caucus.

    Gabbard voted with the Democratic Party90.2 percentof the time, which ranked 154th among the 204 House Democratic members as of July 2014.[150]

    Tulsi Gabbard voted with the Democratic Party94.7 percentof the time, which ranked 110th among the 201 House Democratic members as of June 2013.[151]

    2016 Democratic National Convention

    Tulsi Gabbard
    Democratic National Convention, 2016
    Status:Superdelegate
    State:Hawaii
    Supporting:Bernie Sanders
    Delegates to the DNC 2016
    Calendar and delegate rules overview • Types of delegates •State election law and delegates • Superdelegates by state

    Contents

  • 4 Key votes
  • 4.4.2 Foreign Affairs
  • 4.4.3 Domestic
  • 4.4.4 Immigration
  • 4.5 113th Congress
  • 4.6 National security
  • 4.7 Economy
  • 4.8 Immigration
  • 4.9 Healthcare
  • 4.10 Social issues
  • 5 Issues
  • 6 Elections
  • 6.2 2018
  • 6.3 2016
  • 6.4 2014
  • 6.5 2012
  • 6.6 2004
  • 6.7 2002
  • 7 Campaign themes
  • 8 Campaign donors
  • 8.3 2014
  • 8.4 2012
  • 9 Personal Gain Index
  • 10 Analysis
  • 10.5 Voting with party
  • 11 2016 Democratic National Convention
  • 12 Personal
  • 13 Recent news
  • 14 See also
  • 15 External links
  • 16 Footnotes
  • Gabbard was a superdelegate to the 2016 Democratic National Convention from Hawaii.[152]Gabbard was one of 10 superdelegates from Hawaii. Superdelegates to the 2016 Democratic National Convention were not bound by the results of their state’s primary or caucus to support a specific presidential candidate. Gabbard’s name was included on a list of superdelegates supporting Bernie Sanders released by Sanders' campaign in April 2016.[153]Leading up to the 2016 Democratic National Convention, Sanders had approximately 1,832 pledged delegates and 47 superdelegates for a total of 1,879 delegates. The winner of the Democratic nomination needed the support of 2,383 delegates at the national convention.[154]

    Superdelegates in 2016 were automatic delegates to the Democratic National Convention, meaning that, unlike regular delegates, they were not elected to this position. Also unlike regular delegates, they were not required to pledge their support to any presidential candidate, and they were not bound by the results of their state's presidential primary election or caucus. In 2016, superdelegates included members of the Democratic National Committee, Democratic members of Congress, Democratic governors, and distinguished party leaders, including former presidents and vice presidents. All superdelegates were free to support any presidential candidate of their choosing at the 2016 Democratic National Convention.[155]

    Bernie Sanders won the Hawaii Democratic caucus, beating Hillary Clinton 70 to 30 percent. Sanders' win in Hawaii marked his third victory of the evening on March 26. He also won caucuses in Washington and Alaska.Twenty-fivepledged delegates were up for grabs in the Democratic caucus.

    Hawaii Democratic Caucus, 2016
    CandidateVote %VotesDelegates
    Bernie Sanders69.8%23,53017
    Hillary Clinton30%10,1258
    Other0.2%610
    Totals33,71625
    Source: The New York Times and CNN

    Hawaii had 34 delegates at the 2016 Democratic National Convention. Of this total, 24 were pledged delegates. National party rules stipulated how Democratic delegates in all states were allocated. Pledged delegates were allocated to a candidate in proportion to the votes he or she received in a state's primary or caucus. A candidate was eligible to receive a share of the state's pledged delegates if he or she won at least 15 percent of the votes cast in the primary or caucus. There were three types of pledged Democratic delegates: congressional district delegates, at-large delegates, and party leaders and elected officials (PLEOs). Congressional district delegates were allocated proportionally based on the primary or caucus results in a given district. At-large and PLEO delegates were allocated proportionally based on statewide caucus results.[156][157]

    Ten party leaders and elected officials served as unpledged delegates. These delegates were not required to adhere to the results of a state's primary or caucus.[156][158]

    Personal

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    Gabbard was one of the first two female combat veterans. She also was the first Hindu and first female of Samoan ancestry to ever serve as a member of Congress.[159]

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    Political offices
    Preceded byMazie K. Hirono (D)U.S. House of Representatives - Hawaii District 22013–2021Succeeded byKaiali'i Kahele (D)
    Preceded by'Hawaii House of Representatives -District 422002–2004Succeeded by'
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    [show]Hawaii's current delegation to the United States CongressSenatorsMazie Hirono (D)Brian Schatz (D)RepresentativesDistrict 1Ed Case (D)District 2Kaiali'i Kahele (D)Democratic Party (4)
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