Basic Information
| Full Name | Carol Porter Gabbard |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 1947 (exact date not specified) |
| Place of Birth | Decatur, Indiana, USA |
| Spouse | Mike Gabbard (married 1968) |
| Children | Tulsi Gabbard, Bhakti Gabbard, Aryan Gabbard, Jay Gabbard, Vrindavan Gabbard |
| Profession | Former speech therapist, educator, and public servant |
| Religion | Hinduism (converted in the early 1980s) |
Family Background: A Journey of Transformation
Carol Porter Gabbard’s life is woven with devotion, service, and a deep commitment to family. Born in the heart of Indiana, she grew up amidst the slow rhythms of Midwest life, before making a pivotal decision that would shape her and her family’s future. In 1968, she married Mike Gabbard, a political figure whose influence would touch many lives. Together, they embarked on a journey that would see their five children—each unique in their path—grow into a significant part of Hawaii’s political and social fabric.
But Carol’s story isn’t just about being a wife and mother; it’s about transformation. In the early ’80s, when her daughter Tulsi was just a toddler, the Gabbard family found themselves immersed in a spiritual journey that led to Carol’s conversion to Hinduism. This transformation wasn’t just about faith—it was a cultural shift that enveloped their entire family and altered the course of their lives forever.
Meet the Gabbard Family: A Legacy of Service and Influence
Carol Porter Gabbard and her husband, Mike, have raised five children, each of whom has contributed in unique ways to public service, cultural advocacy, and spiritual life. Let’s break down the family dynamics:
Mike Gabbard: The Political Force
Mike Gabbard is Carol’s husband, and together, they have navigated the shifting tides of Hawaii’s political landscape. Mike has been serving as a Hawaii State Senator since 2006, using his platform to influence policies that affect the state’s people. His political presence is both a reflection of his dedication to his community and an embodiment of the values he shares with Carol.
Tulsi Gabbard: The Daughter Who Shaped History
Tulsi Gabbard, the couple’s most well-known child, has created waves in the U.S. political scene. Known for her tenure as a U.S. Representative and for being the first Hindu member of President Trump’s cabinet, Tulsi’s rise to prominence has been both inspirational and controversial. Her worldview, shaped by her upbringing in a multicultural household, reflects the deep spiritual and cultural values instilled by her mother, Carol.
The Gabbard Siblings: Bhakti, Aryan, Jay, and Vrindavan
Though not as publicly known as Tulsi, the Gabbard siblings have carved their own paths. Bhakti, Aryan, and Jay have remained relatively private, with their lives largely shielded from the public eye. However, Vrindavan, the youngest, has been the subject of some media attention, especially in relation to her sister’s political career. Each of these siblings holds a unique piece of the Gabbard family puzzle, contributing to the story of a family that is both grounded in tradition and open to the world around them.
A Career Built on Service and Compassion
Carol’s professional journey reflects her core values: service, compassion, and dedication to others. Before becoming a mother, Carol worked as a speech therapist, helping children communicate more effectively and find their voices. Her work in education and therapy allowed her to make a tangible impact in her community—a trait that continues to shine through in her family’s public service efforts.
From 2000 to 2004, Carol served on the Hawaii State Board of Education, helping shape the educational landscape of her home state. Her involvement with the Board was a natural extension of her passion for helping others, particularly the youth, find their way in the world.
In addition to her work in education, Carol’s unwavering support for her daughter, Tulsi, throughout her political career has been integral to the latter’s success. From local elections to national campaigns, Carol has been a steadfast presence in her daughter’s journey.
Financial Footprints: Carol’s Wealth and Influence
When it comes to Carol’s net worth, specifics remain a bit elusive, as her financial life is relatively private. However, her daughter, Tulsi Gabbard, has publicly disclosed her own wealth, which is valued between $55 million and $127 million. This includes assets such as her personal home, as well as other investments. While Carol’s personal wealth isn’t discussed in the same way, the family’s financial stability has no doubt supported their ability to make an impact in various sectors.
FAQ
Who is Carol Porter Gabbard?
Carol Porter Gabbard is the mother of Tulsi Gabbard, a former U.S. Representative, and the wife of Mike Gabbard, a Hawaii State Senator. She is a former speech therapist and has served on the Hawaii State Board of Education.
What is Carol Porter Gabbard’s role in Tulsi Gabbard’s political career?
Carol Porter Gabbard has been a strong supporter of her daughter, Tulsi, throughout her political career. Her values, spiritual beliefs, and commitment to public service have profoundly influenced Tulsi’s worldview and political platform.
How many children does Carol Porter Gabbard have?
Carol and Mike Gabbard have five children: Tulsi, Bhakti, Aryan, Jay, and Vrindavan. Each of them has made their mark in various ways, with Tulsi being the most publicly recognized.
What is Carol Porter Gabbard’s religion?
Carol Porter Gabbard converted to Hinduism in the early 1980s, a decision that deeply shaped her family’s cultural and spiritual identity.
What did Carol Porter Gabbard do professionally?
Before becoming a full-time mother, Carol worked as a speech therapist. She later served on the Hawaii State Board of Education and has remained involved in various community efforts throughout her life.
Is Carol Porter Gabbard wealthy?
While Carol Porter Gabbard’s exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, her daughter, Tulsi Gabbard, has a reported net worth ranging from $55 million to $127 million in 2025.
