Background and Allegations
An investigation by The Washington Post has uncovered details about Tulsi Gabbard’s relationship with Chris Butler, the leader of the Science of Identity Foundation (SIF), a fraction of the Hare Krishna group. Gabbard, who previously held office as President Donald Trump’s director of national intelligence, is said to have received influence from Butler during her time in Congress.
The investigation cites internal documents provided by a former SIF member, Rebecca Saltzburg, which allegedly show that Butler sought to shape Gabbard’s political messaging from 2011 to 2017—spanning most of her initial congressional terms. The timeframe of the documents does not indicate whether Gabbard continued receiving guidance beyond 2017. Saltzburg released these documents due to concerns that Gabbard misled voters regarding Butler’s role in her decision-making.
The documents allegedly include policy suggestions, talking points, and directives for Gabbard during her congressional tenure. Between 2014 and 2016, Gabbard reportedly echoed several talking points from SIF memos.
Newsweek attempted to confirm these claims but couldn’t independently verify them. Both Gabbard’s office and the SIF have been contacted for comments.
Response from Gabbard and Others
In response, Gabbard’s chief of staff labeled the claims as false and an example of anti-Hindu bigotry, attributing them to a failed extortion attempt by a disgruntled former volunteer. Additionally, SIF representatives dismissed the investigation as a smear motivated by Hinduphobia.
Gabbard resigned from her role as director of national intelligence, citing her husband’s cancer diagnosis as the reason.
Chris Butler’s Background
Chris Butler began teaching Krishnaism after leaving the University of Hawaii in the late 1960s. He established the Science of Identity Foundation in 1977, promoting practices like meditation, chanting, and strict lifestyle rules. Though seen by some as a legitimate spiritual community, former members have described SIF as insular or cult-like.
Butler maintains a low profile, rarely appearing in public and primarily communicating through recorded lectures or intermediaries.
Gabbard’s Longstanding Ties to Butler
Gabbard’s connections with Butler date back to her childhood, with family members holding senior roles within SIF. She grew up attending schools run by Butler’s followers and has frequently spoken of her gratitude towards Butler.
In 2015, she referred to Butler as her “beloved grandfather” and “spiritual master” during a Hare Krishna anniversary event.
Tulsi Gabbard’s Political Career
Raised in Hawaii, Gabbard was elected to Hawaii’s House of Representatives at 21 but left after one term due to military deployment. She later served four terms in the U.S. Congress, becoming known for challenging her party’s leadership. Gabbard ran for president in 2020 but dropped out to support Joe Biden.
Gabbard endorsed Trump in 2024, shortly before being appointed director of national intelligence.
Details from the Documents
Saltzburg provided over 25,000 pages of memos and emails, with Butler’s involvement not directly mentioned. The emails were sent to a small group known as Butler’s “political team,” which included Gabbard’s parents and Saltzburg. Saltzburg claims the memos originated from Butler.
One memo from 2014 urged Gabbard to propose legislation against countries with citizens fighting for ISIS, which she followed with a statement and bill introduction. Another memo regarding a debate implied Gabbard repeated its talking points.
Saltzburg had previously sought damages from a Butler disciple over events related to her Texas arrest, threatening legal action that could expose potentially embarrassing information. Her demand was refused.
Statements from Former Members
Robin Marshall, a former SIF member, claimed that Gabbard was groomed for politics due to Butler’s aspirations. Marshall described the organization as initially enticing but later felt it involved harsh living conditions and rules.
Marshall reported never meeting Butler personally but described his influence as volatile, recounting an incident involving excessive criticism over cleaning supplies.
This article includes reporting by The Associated Press.
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