Gabbard had her confirmation hearing on Thursday as senators questioned her on her alliances and controversies.

President Trump’s choice to serve as the director of national intelligence faced tough questions from senators in both parties.

Gabbard replied that she had only meant to highlight the “egregiously illegal and unconstitutional programs” that Snowden had exposed—specifically NSA programs that intercepted communications of U.S. citizens—and that his leaks had led to “serious reforms.”