Tulsi Gabbard’s Resignation: What It Means for Malta

Imagine, if you will, the bustling streets of Valletta on a typical Maltese morning. The sun is already warm, casting its golden glow on the historic buildings that line Republic Street. Among the locals and tourists going about their day, you might spot a familiar face – that of Tulsi Gabbard, the former US Representative from Hawaii who, just days ago, resigned from her position as the Chair of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Cyber, Innovative Technologies, and Information Systems.

Gabbard, a Democrat who represented Hawaii’s 2nd congressional district from 2013 to 2021, made waves in Washington with her resignation. But why should Malta, an island nation in the Mediterranean, care? The answer lies in Gabbard’s influence and the potential implications of her resignation on global politics and, more specifically, on Malta’s strategic interests.

For those unfamiliar with Gabbard’s connection to Malta, it might come as a surprise to learn that she has been a regular visitor to the island. Her father, Mike Gabbard, served as a Hawaii state senator and has been a long-time friend of Malta’s former Prime Minister, Joseph Muscat. The two politicians have maintained a close relationship, with Muscat even attending Gabbard’s wedding in 2015.

Gabbard herself has been vocal about her affection for Malta. In a 2017 interview with The Malta Independent, she praised the island’s natural beauty and its people, saying, “Malta is a place that I have come to love and appreciate, not just for its beauty, but also for the warmth and kindness of its people.” She has been spotted enjoying Malta’s beaches, exploring its historic sites, and even participating in local events like the Malta Marathon.

Gabbard’s resignation from her congressional position in 2021 was significant, but her recent resignation from her subcommittee chairmanship has raised eyebrows in Washington and beyond. As the chair of the subcommittee overseeing cybersecurity and innovative technologies, Gabbard played a crucial role in shaping US policy in these areas. Her departure could have implications for Malta, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity.

Malta, like many other countries, is increasingly dependent on digital technologies. This dependence brings with it a host of cybersecurity challenges. According to a 2021 report by the National Cyber Security Strategy, Malta experienced a significant increase in cyber incidents between 2018 and 2020. The report highlighted the need for strong cybersecurity measures and international cooperation to combat these threats.

Gabbard’s resignation could potentially impact US-Malta cooperation in this area. As the former chair of the subcommittee, she was instrumental in fostering relationships with international partners and promoting US cybersecurity interests abroad. Her departure may lead to a shift in US priorities or a change in the personnel responsible for these relationships.

Gabbard’s resignation could have implications for Malta’s strategic interests in the broader geopolitical arena. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, she had a say in US defense policy, including decisions related to military spending, force structure, and operations. Her resignation could potentially influence US policy in regions where Malta has strategic interests, such as the Mediterranean and the Middle East.

As for Gabbard, her future plans remain unclear. She has not ruled out a run for president in 2024, and her resignation from her subcommittee chairmanship could be seen as a step towards that goal. Regardless of her political aspirations, her influence on US policy is likely to continue, given her experience and expertise in national security and foreign affairs.

As for Malta, the island nation will continue to navigate the complex geopolitical scene, seeking to protect its interests and maintain its strategic partnerships. The resignation of Tulsi Gabbard may present challenges, but it also presents opportunities for Malta to engage with new voices in Washington and to strengthen its relationships with its international partners.

In the words of Malta’s current Prime Minister, Robert Abela, “Malta is a small island, but it punches above its weight. We will continue to do so, working with our friends and allies to protect our interests and promote our values.”