Former Hawaii Representative Tulsi Gabbard’s journey in American politics has taken a dramatic turn, culminating in her recent endorsement of GOP candidate Donald Trump for president. Gabbard, once a prominent Democrat and a 2020 presidential candidate, has now crossed party lines, signaling a complete break from her former political affiliations.

Gabbard’s political career began within the Democratic Party, where she served as the representative for Hawaii’s 2nd congressional district from 2013 to 2021. However, her relationship with the party began to sour, particularly after her scathing criticism of then-candidate Kamala Harris during a 2019 debate. Gabbard’s debate performance was one of the most memorable moments of the Democratic primary, exposing what she saw as significant flaws in Harris’s record as a prosecutor.

By 2022, Gabbard had officially left the Democratic Party, condemning it as an “elitist cabal of warmongers” and expressing deep disappointment in what she perceived as a betrayal of the party’s commitment to democracy and peace.

Her departure from the party was a significant moment, highlighting the growing disillusionment among some former Democrats with the party’s direction.

BREAKING: Trump just formally announced that Tulsi Gabbard, the former Democrat presidential candidate and DNC vice-chair, will be JOINING his campaign to destroy Kamala Harris

“She’s got great common sense, great spirit, and she loves our country.” pic.twitter.com/c5iqG8Z9q2

— George (@BehizyTweets) August 26, 2024

Recently, Gabbard has been recruited by Donald Trump to assist with debate preparation, particularly for his upcoming September 10 face-off against Vice President Kamala Harris at the National Constitutional Center in Philadelphia. Gabbard’s role in Trump’s debate prep underscores her transition from Democratic rising star to a key supporter of the Republican frontrunner.

In a speech endorsing Trump, Gabbard made it clear that her allegiance lies with her love of country rather than any particular political party.

“I am proud to stand here before you today, whether you’re a Democrat, a Republican, or an Independent,” Gabbard said. “If you love our country, as I do, if you cherish peace and freedom as we do, I invite you to join me in doing all that we can to save our country and elect President Donald J. Trump and send him back to the White House to do the tough work of saving our country and serving the people.”

Gabbard’s endorsement is a significant boost for Trump, adding to the momentum his campaign has gained in recent weeks. Her shift from Democrat to Trump supporter is a stark reflection of the broader political realignment happening in the U.S., where disillusionment with the Democratic Party is leading some former members to cross the aisle. Gabbard’s endorsement follows that of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., another high-profile former Democrat who has thrown his support behind Trump, further shaking up the 2024 presidential race.