Former U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has announced her decision to join the Republican Party, marking a significant shift in her political affiliation.

The former Democrat, who subsequently became an independent, made the announcement at a rally for former President Donald Trump in Greensboro, North Carolina, expressing admiration for his leadership within the GOP, which she now considers her political home, as Breitbart reports.

On Tuesday, amidst a crowd of supporters, Gabbard spoke at length about her motivations for joining the GOP. She expressed her commitment to the United States and attributed her move to the transformation that Trump has brought to the Republican Party.

Tulsi Applauds Trump's Stance on Borders

Gabbard noted that Trump's leadership has realigned the party to be more focused on "the people" and "equality."

She labeled a vote for Trump as synonymous with advocating for "secure borders" and nurturing "safe communities." She emphasized that this decision was rooted in her belief that a Trump presidency represents not only domestic stability but also international peace.

The former lawmaker voiced her respect for Trump's prior foreign policy decisions, citing his record of avoiding new military conflicts during his initial tenure in the White House.

Reflcting on Party's History

Gabbard elaborated on her stance, highlighting the values she associates with the Republican Party under Trump's guidance. She described the party as "the party of common sense" and credited Trump with possessing the courage needed to champion peace.

Addressing the crowd, Gabbard also drew historical connections, portraying the Republican Party as historically being committed to fighting against injustices like slavery. She described it as "a big, open-tent party" welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds and being a strong advocate for American constitutional freedoms.

Her statements appeared to reinforce her belief in the inclusivity and egalitarian ethos Trump has cultivated within the party ranks.

Urging Unity Ahead of Upcoming Election

Meanwhile, Gabbard's past political affiliations seem starkly different from her current alignment. She had notably criticized Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2020 presidential campaign, when they both sought the Democratic Party nomination, scrutinizing her tenure as California's attorney general, especially concerning marijuana-related incarceration.

Gabbard used the platform at the Trump rally to call for unity. With what she termed the "most historic election of our lives" looming large, she urged Americans to collectively safeguard the nation, irrespective of partisan lines.

She rallied the assembly by framing a vote for Trump as not just a vote for the individual but also a vote for broader American values and principles enshrined in the nation's founding documents.

Political Evolution Unfolds

Despite her Democratic Party roots in the 2020 presidential race, Gabbard's transition to the GOP has been a gradual process. She had signaled her departure from the party in October 2022, citing fundamental disagreements with its direction.

In a nod to her evolving political journey, Gabbard has since reaffirmed her endorsement of Trump for the upcoming presidential election.

Back in August, she praised Trump's approach to international relations, particularly his focus on de-escalating and circumventing military conflicts.

Her recent alignment represents more than just a change in party; it symbolizes her allegiance to what she sees as Trump's vision for America and its role on the global stage.

In sum, Tulsi Gabbard's announcement marked a pivotal moment in her political narrative. By joining the Republican Party, she has declared her support for the policies and direction of former President Trump.

As the nation edges closer to a pivotal election, her call for unity echoes her desire for a more cohesive American political landscape.