DNI Tulsi Gabbard has sent shockwaves through Washington and beyond after revealing that she is currently working to shut down Operation Mockingbird—a controversial propaganda initiative originally believed to have ended decades ago. In a stunning disclosure, Gabbard asserted that the CIA and parts of the U.S. intelligence community are still covertly involved in manipulating news and media narratives, directly challenging long-held public assumptions.
Operation Mockingbird was originally exposed in the 1970s as a clandestine CIA program aimed at influencing journalists and controlling the flow of information in both domestic and international news. It was widely assumed to have been shut down following congressional hearings and public outrage. However, Gabbard’s revelation suggests that not only did the operation persist in the shadows, but it may also have evolved into a far more sophisticated and subtle form of media control.
According to Gabbard, her team has uncovered ongoing efforts within the intelligence establishment to place operatives or collaborators within mainstream news organizations. These individuals allegedly shape public opinion by selectively leaking information, crafting narratives, and downplaying stories that could undermine government credibility. While Gabbard did not release the names of any specific outlets or individuals, her statements have reignited debate over press freedom, government overreach, and the integrity of modern journalism.
The former congresswoman turned intelligence chief emphasized that the continued existence of such a program poses a serious threat to democratic values. “If we allow intelligence agencies to operate unchecked in the realm of media, we lose the ability to hold power accountable,” she warned. Her efforts to root out Operation Mockingbird are said to be meeting internal resistance, indicating that elements within the system may be deeply invested in preserving these covert capabilities.
Critics argue that Gabbard’s claims are exaggerated or politically motivated, citing a lack of hard evidence. However, supporters contend that her track record of challenging the establishment lends credibility to her accusations. Civil liberties groups have also expressed concern, demanding greater transparency and congressional oversight.
The implications of Gabbard’s allegations are enormous. If Operation Mockingbird is still active, it would mean that Americans are potentially being fed filtered or manipulated news, undermining the public’s ability to make informed decisions. Such a revelation would not only shake trust in media institutions but also raise troubling questions about how deep the ties run between intelligence agencies and the press.
As calls grow for an independent investigation, Tulsi Gabbard’s bold stance continues to draw both praise and skepticism. One thing is clear: her revelation has opened a Pandora’s box, and the conversation around government influence in journalism is far from over. Whether she will succeed in dismantling what she calls “an invisible hand guiding the narrative” remains to be seen, but the spotlight is now squarely on the intelligence community—and the media it may still quietly control.
