Summary of "Tulsi Gabbard on Investigating the Leaks, Fighting the Deep State, and Whether She'll Run in 2028 | Ep. 1061"

The Megyn Kelly Show, hosted by Megyn Kelly on SiriusXM, features a comprehensive interview with John Ratcliffe, the Director of National Intelligence. The episode delves into critical subjects such as the integrity of the intelligence community, handling leaks, national security threats, border security, and internal administrative reforms.

1. Introduction and Context

[00:45] Megyn Kelly:
Megyn Kelly opens the show by reflecting on her initial encounter with Tulsi Gabbard, noting the significant changes in both their careers over five years. She introduces John Ratcliffe, emphasizing his pivotal role in overseeing 18 intelligence agencies and his commitment to transparency and accountability within the intelligence community.

2. The Role and Mission of the Director of National Intelligence

[04:43] Megyn Kelly:
Kelly inquires about Ratcliffe's initial actions upon assuming his role. Ratcliffe shares his proactive approach:

[06:18] John Ratcliffe:
"The first thing that I did was actually send out an email to all the people who work here and said, I'll be down here in this lobby... It was standing room only here. I was grateful to be able to have the opportunity to just immediately address those who work here..."

He highlights the warm reception and the immediate dialogue with intelligence professionals, setting the tone for his leadership focused on serving the American people.

3. Combating Leaks and the Deep State

[08:30] Megyn Kelly:
Kelly addresses the challenges of dealing with internal leaks and the opposition Ratcliffe faces within the intelligence community.

[09:00] John Ratcliffe:
"Bringing about transparency and accountability, shining a light in areas that haven't seen the light in a very long time..."
Ratcliffe discusses his efforts to root out corruption and ensure that intelligence operations align with public interest rather than hidden agendas.

4. Declassification of Historical Documents

[10:25] Megyn Kelly:
The conversation shifts to the declassification of JFK and RFK assassination documents.

[11:27] John Ratcliffe:
"There were new pieces of information that was declassified... the important thing is that the transparency is there."
He underscores the value of transparency even if it doesn’t solve longstanding mysteries, emphasizing the government's commitment to openness.

5. Investigating COVID-19 Origins

[12:23] Megyn Kelly:
Kelly brings up the controversial claim by the Chinese State Council regarding COVID-19's origins.

[13:00] John Ratcliffe:
"We are working on that with Jay Bhattacharya... hopefully very soon."
Ratcliffe elaborates on the ongoing investigations into the virus's origins, hinting at potential links to U.S.-funded research but remains cautious about definitive conclusions.

6. National Security Threats: Iran and Cartels

[22:29] John Ratcliffe:
Discussing Iran, Ratcliffe reassures that military options remain available but emphasizes diplomatic efforts:

"Any deal that is potentially made with Iran will have to come with a very, very rigorous set of verification."
He criticizes previous administrations for inadequate intelligence use and asserts the importance of peace through strength.

[38:36] John Ratcliffe:
Shifting to border security, Ratcliffe highlights the collaboration between various agencies to combat cartel activities:

"We are identifying almost 600 people who are known or suspected terrorists who illegally came into our country."
He emphasizes the coordinated efforts to deport or prosecute individuals linked to criminal organizations.

7. Addressing the Fentanyl Crisis

[43:19] John Ratcliffe:
Ratcliffe acknowledges fentanyl as a top domestic threat, discussing the intelligence community's role in dismantling cartel operations:

"President Trump recognized this as the greatest domestic threat."
He outlines the strategic partnerships with international counterparts to secure borders and eliminate trafficking channels.

8. Reforming Internal Operations: DEI Initiatives

[60:19] John Ratcliffe:
Ratcliffe critiques previous administration's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, detailing the shutdown of related offices to reallocate funds:

"There was a DEI office that was immediately shut down... $150 million today."
He argues that focusing on DEI detracts from national security priorities and undermines operational efficiency within intelligence agencies.

9. Handling Signalgate and Internal Communications

[66:08] Megyn Kelly:
Kelly references the misuse of Signal for confidential communications during the Biden administration.

[68:10] John Ratcliffe:
"Officials I know for certain that it was to include national security officials."
Ratcliffe defends the use of secure communication channels, clarifying that incidents of misuse are exceptions rather than the rule.

10. Looking Ahead: Potential Political Ambitions

[69:31] John Ratcliffe:
When asked about future political aspirations, Ratcliffe remains open but non-committal:

"I will never rule out any opportunity to serve my country."
He expresses gratitude for his current role and dedication to national service.

11. Closing Remarks and Endorsement of Leadership

[71:10] John Ratcliffe:
Ratcliffe praises President Trump's leadership qualities:

"He's a very bold leader... effective at connecting with the American people."
He emphasizes Trump’s commitment to the American populace and his strategic approach to governance.

Notable Quotes:

• John Ratcliffe [06:18]:
  "I laid out who I am, my background, and the mandate that the American people delivered by electing Donald Trump."

• John Ratcliffe [09:00]:
  "Bringing about transparency and accountability, shining a light in areas that haven't seen the light in a very long time."

• John Ratcliffe [13:00]:
  "We are working on that with Jay Bhattacharya and look forward to being able to share that hopefully very soon."

• John Ratcliffe [66:34]:
  "That is part of what we're doing in our investigative work as we go back and look, for example, at Crossfire Hurricane."

Conclusion

The episode provides an in-depth look into the challenges facing the intelligence community, highlighting John Ratcliffe's commitment to transparency, combating internal leaks, and addressing significant national security threats. Ratcliffe's insights into administrative reforms and his unwavering support for President Trump's leadership offer listeners a clear perspective on the current state and future direction of U.S. intelligence operations.