At her confirmation hearing last week, Gabbard had faced pointed questions from some Republicans about her stances on Edward Snowden and the controversial surveillance program he helped to expose.

Gabbard is one of Trump’s most divisive nominees with lawmakers of both parties also pointing to her past support for government leaker Edward Snowden.

Young said he sought commitments from Gabbard to "advance our national security." Young had been under pressure to support Trump's pick.