Tulsi Gabbard joins Republican Party at Trump rally in North Carolina

Former Democratic congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard on Wednesday announced that she is joining the Republican Party during a rally for Donald Trump in North Carolina . Gabbard, who represented Hawaii’s 2nd congressional district from 2013 to 2021, expressed her admiration for Trump's leadership and vision for the party.

"And it is because of my love for our country," Gabbard said, "and specifically because of the leadership that President Trump has brought to transform the Republican Party and bring it back to the party of the people and the party of peace that I'm proud to stand here with you today, President Trump, and announce that I'm joining the Republican Party."

"I'm joining the party of the People, the party of equality, the party that was founded to fight against and end slavery in this country. It is the party of common sense and the party that is led by a president who has the courage and strength to fight for peace," she said.

Welcome to the party, @TulsiGabbard. pic.twitter.com/nDHxnST9CC

— Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) October 23, 2024

In August Tulsi had officially endorsed Republican candidate Donald Trump in Detroit, expressing confidence that he can steer the country away from war. Before leaving the Democratic Party in 2022, criticised her former party as a "warmongering elite."

Following her endorsement, Trump praised her as a "true American patriot" and a "special person" with strong values. Gabbard reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring Trump's return to the White House, stressing the need for peace and civil liberties.