Allegations Surface Regarding Tulsi Gabbard’s Political Influences

A recent investigation by The Washington Post suggests that Chris Butler, leader of the Science of Identity Foundation (SIF), might have influenced Tulsi Gabbard’s political messaging during her tenure in Congress. Gabbard, who recently resigned as Donald Trump’s director of national intelligence, had described Butler as her guru in the past.

The investigation, based on internal documents revealed by former SIF member Rebecca Saltzburg, indicates that Butler was shaping Gabbard’s decisions between 2011 and 2017. This period covers most of her first two Congressional terms. Saltzburg stated she provided the documents as she believed Gabbard misled voters regarding Butler’s involvement in her decision-making.

Saltzburg said, “I felt Gabbard misled voters about Butler’s role and his influence on her decision-making.”

The Post’s investigation highlighted instances where Gabbard mirrored the talking points put forth in SIF memos between 2014 and 2016. However, it remains unclear if the guidance extended beyond 2017. Newsweek attempted to verify these claims and reached out to Gabbard’s office and SIF for comments.

Gabbard’s chief of staff labeled the allegations as false and described them as an example of anti-Hindu sentiment. The statement emphasized that allegations were tied to a failed extortion attempt by a former volunteer.

Chris Butler and His Influence

Chris Butler, also known as Jagad Guru Siddhaswarupananda Paramahamsa, dropped out of the University of Hawaii in the late 1960s and began promoting Krishnaism and meditation. He founded the Science of Identity in 1977, which adopts practices like meditation and strict lifestyle rules. Many followers reside in Hawaii, Australia, and Southeast Asia.

While characterized by supporters as a spiritual community, some ex-members view it as insular or cult-like. Butler himself maintains a low public profile, communicating mainly through recordings or intermediaries.

Butler’s Connection to Gabbard

Tulsi Gabbard has had a longstanding relationship with Butler, dating back to her childhood. Her family held leadership roles in his organization. At a 2015 event commemorating the Hare Krishna, she called Butler her “beloved grandfather” and “spiritual master.”

Political Career of Tulsi Gabbard

Gabbard, originally from Hawaii, started her political career by being elected to Hawaii’s House of Representatives at age 21. After one term, she left to serve in Iraq with her National Guard unit.

Later, as Hawaii’s representative in Congress, she became known for her independent stance, sometimes opposing her own party. Gabbard ran for President in 2020 and supported Joe Biden after withdrawing from the race. In 2024, she endorsed Donald Trump, who appointed her as director of national intelligence.

Analysis of Internal Documents

The documents from Saltzburg, encompassing over 25,000 pages, contained memos linked to emails. Butler’s name did not appear, and Gabbard seldomly received them directly, as they circulated among a select group connected to both Gabbard and Butler.

Saltzburg claims these memos directed Gabbard, evidenced by a 2014 memo urging her to propose legislation against nations harboring Islamic State fighters. Gabbard introduced a related bill shortly after.

Other memos dictated responses, such as one from 2015 that advised Gabbard on her choice of words, which she later replicated in public statements.

Extortion and Former Member’s Account

Saltzburg’s attempts to solicit $250,000 as compensation after a Texas arrest were linked to allegations against her. Her demand included references to threats of a lawsuit that might reveal damaging information about Butler and Gabbard. Butler declined involvement, and Saltzburg did not pursue further action.

Robin Marshall, a former SIF member, alleged that Gabbard was groomed for political office to fulfill Butler’s ambitions. She portrayed SIF as controlling, detailing an environment of enforced tasks and secrecy without direct contact with Butler.