Written by: Sam Orlando
STAUNTON, VIRGINIA - A growing controversy has erupted as former U.S. Congresswoman and presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard alleges that she has been added to the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) "Quiet Skies" program, a covert watchlist typically reserved for potential terrorists. Gabbard, a former Hawaii representative and Army veteran, contends that her inclusion on the list is politically motivated, coinciding with her recent criticism of Vice President Kamala Harris and her endorsement of former President Donald Trump.
Gabbard Faces Travel Hurdles While Preparing to Assist Trump in Upcoming Debate
Gabbard, who served in Congress from 2013 to 2021, has taken independent stances that often diverge from mainstream Democratic views. Recently, she has gained attention for helping Trump prepare for an upcoming debate against Vice President Harris and publicly endorsing him for the 2024 presidential race.
Whistleblowers Confirm TSA Targeting of Gabbard Through 'Quiet Skies' Program
According to whistleblowers from the Federal Air Marshal Service, Gabbard has been a target of the TSA’s "Quiet Skies" program, which is designed to monitor individuals deemed potential security risks on domestic flights. These whistleblowers revealed that Gabbard was unknowingly subjected to heightened scrutiny, including the presence of multiple air marshals and explosive detection teams on her flights. This intense surveillance began soon after she criticized the Biden-Harris administration and denounced the military-industrial complex in a public interview.
"Gabbard Accuses TSA of 'Political Retribution' for Criticizing Harris
In a statement to the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, Gabbard accused the TSA of engaging in "political retaliation." She highlighted the timing of her placement on the Quiet Skies list, noting that it occurred shortly after a high-profile interview where she criticized Harris. "It’s no accident that I was placed on the Quiet Skies list the day after I did a prime-time interview warning the American people about why Kamala Harris would be bad for our country if elected as President and Commander in Chief," Gabbard stated.
'Quiet Skies' Terror Watchlist Program Faces Renewed Scrutiny
The Quiet Skies program, although intended to protect passengers, has drawn criticism for its lack of transparency and potential for abuse. Gabbard and her husband, Abraham Williams, reportedly experienced this scrutiny firsthand during recent flights, where they encountered repeated "Secondary Security Screening Selection" (SSSS) procedures. "It happened every time I boarded," Gabbard told Racket News, describing the invasive searches that she and her husband endured.
The allegations have prompted significant backlash from Gabbard's supporters and members of Congress. On August 8, U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett (R-TN) sent a letter to TSA Administrator David P. Pekoske demanding an explanation for Gabbard’s placement on the watchlist. "I find this profoundly troubling for a number of reasons," Burchett wrote, requesting a meeting to discuss the matter further.
In addition, several Hawaii State House Republicans voiced their concerns, urging the TSA to remove Gabbard from the watchlist or provide transparency regarding the reasons for her inclusion. "How can your Agency assume you have the power to put a Congresswoman on your Terrorist Watch List and not explain yourself?" the letter, signed by four Republican representatives, asked.
Gabbard’s Case Fuels Claims of Law Enforcement Weaponization in 2024 Race
The controversy surrounding Gabbard's case is part of a broader discussion about the alleged weaponization of federal agencies under the Biden-Harris administration. As The Daily Signal reported, the administration has been accused of using government powers to intimidate and silence political opponents. In this case, the Quiet Skies program's use against Gabbard, a high-profile figure, raises concerns about potential abuses of power and the erosion of civil liberties.
Gabbard, who continues to serve in the U.S. Army, expressed deep disappointment in the government she once proudly served. "The real pain this has caused is the stress of forever looking over my shoulder, wondering if and how I am being watched, what secret terror watch list I’m on, and having no transparency or due process," she said.
TSA Silent on Gabbard Allegations
The TSA has yet to publicly comment on the specifics of Gabbard's claims. However, the agency has previously stated that the Quiet Skies program does not consider political affiliation when determining who is subject to increased surveillance.
As the controversy continues to unfold, Gabbard’s case may further ignite debates over the balance between national security and civil liberties, as well as the potential for abuse of power in politically charged environments. The former congresswoman has vowed to fight the designation and advocate for greater transparency and accountability within the TSA and other government agencies.
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