Moderate Sen. Susan Collins backed Tulsi Gabbard’s bid to become director of national intelligence ahead of a key committee vote Tuesday, in a significant boost for the former Hawaii rep’s prospects.

Collins, a pivotal swing vote on the Senate Intelligence Committee, is expected to play a key role in advancing Gabbard’s nomination as the committee meets on Tuesday.

Former U.S. Representative Tulsi Gabbard's nomination to become director of national intelligence received a major boost on Monday when Senator Susan Collins said she would back President Donald Trump's nominee.