From Austin to the Aloha State: Did Tulsi Gabbard Break Voting Laws?

There's turmoil in Texas! Former Democratic congresswoman from Hawaii and current U.S. Director of National Intelligence under President Donald Trump, ​Tulsi Gabbard, is facing scrutiny over her residency status and voting practices during the 2024 general election. Despite declaring residency in Texas, Gabbard voted in Hawaii, raising questions about potential legal implications.

What Happened?​

In June 2024, Gabbard and her husband purchased a home near Austin, Texas, and declared under oath their residency in the state. They also applied for a homestead tax exemption, which Texas law reserves for primary residences. However, in the November 2024 general election, Gabbard cast her ballot in Hawaii, asserting her continued residency there.​

Election law experts have expressed concerns regarding this situation. Justin Levitt, a law professor at Loyola Marymount University specializing in election law, commented:

"If she voted in Hawaii without actually living up to Hawaii’s eligibility standard, then that’s a problem. Alternatively, if she always meant to keep Hawaii as home, that could well be a problem for that Texas tax exemption."​

Gabbard's attorneys maintain that she remains a Hawaii resident, stating she "was, is, and intends to remain a Hawaii resident." They explained that the homestead exemption application in Texas was based on advice from local officials to protect her address due to security concerns.

Other Controversies?​

This development adds to the controversies surrounding Gabbard. After serving as a Democratic representative for Hawaii's 2nd congressional district from 2013 to 2021, she left the Democratic Party in 2022, citing disagreements with its direction. In 2024, she joined the Republican Party and endorsed Donald Trump for president. Her nomination and subsequent confirmation as Director of National Intelligence in February 2025 were met with bipartisan scrutiny. Notably, former Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell was the only Republican senator to vote against her confirmation, citing concerns over her judgment and past positions.

As of now, no formal investigations have been announced regarding Gabbard's residency and voting actions. The situation underscores the complexities of state voting laws and the importance of clear residency declarations for public officials.