Tulsi Gabbard Refers Whistleblower And Ex-Inspector General To DOJ Over Trump Impeachment
Key Takeaways
- DNI Tulsi Gabbard sent criminal referrals to the DOJ regarding the Trump 2019 impeachment inquiry
- Referrals target the whistleblower and the IC Inspector General tied to impeachment proceedings
- Spokespersons confirmed referrals but did not specify crimes alleged
Gabbard's Criminal Referral
Gabbard sent criminal referrals targeting the whistleblower and Atkinson, central figures in Trump's 2019 impeachment.
“US spy chief sends criminal referrals to JOD for whistleblower, watchdog in Trump’s 1st impeachment probe Spokesperson for Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard's office confirmed criminal referrals for whistleblower and former intelligence community watchdog but did not detail what specific crimes are alleged, reports CBS News Esra Tekin 16 April 2026•Update: 16 April 2026 ISTANBUL US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard requested the Justice Department look into two former officials who were key figures in President Donald Trump’s first impeachment investigation”
Gabbard alleged deep state actors concocted a false narrative that Congress used to impeach Trump.
The referral was confirmed by multiple outlets including CNN, Fox News, and CBS News.
The whistleblower complaint alleged Trump used his office to solicit interference from a foreign country in the 2020 election.
Rep. Jim Himes denounced the effort, saying it will chill future whistleblowers.
Atkinson's Handling of the Complaint
Gabbard alleged Atkinson did not follow standard IG procedures and relied on politicized narratives.
The whistleblower had no firsthand knowledge of Trump's call with Zelenskyy.
Atkinson found indications of political bias but still deemed the complaint a matter of urgent concern.
Atkinson was fired by Trump in 2020.
Critics say the documents do not provide direct evidence of criminal wrongdoing.
Political Reactions and Implications
The referral ignited fierce political debate.
“Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard sent at least one criminal referral to the Justice Department seeking investigations of a whistleblower complaint and its handling by the intelligence community watchdog that led to the 2019 impeachment of President Donald Trump, a spokesperson for Gabbard’s office confirmed Wednesday”
Rep. Jim Himes defended the whistleblower, saying they demonstrated courage and principle.
Gabbard's move is part of a wider effort to revisit past investigations.
The Justice Department must decide whether to pursue a formal investigation.
The case remains under scrutiny.
More on USA
Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons Resigns After DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin Sets May 31 Exit
13 sources compared
Hennepin County Prosecutors Charge ICE Officer Gregory Donnell Morgan Jr. With Felony Assault
24 sources compared
Analilia Mejia Defeats Joe Hathaway in New Jersey 11th District Special Election
16 sources compared
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin Announces Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons Resignation May 31
13 sources compared