The FBI is now investigating former CIA Director John Brennan and former FBI Director James Comey for their roles in the Trump-Russia investigation from the 2016 election. This development follows referrals for potential criminal prosecution made by CIA Director John Ratcliffe to FBI Director Kash Patel. The exact details of the investigations are still unclear, but they mark a significant turn in the ongoing scrutiny of how the intelligence community handled the investigation into Russian interference.
Recently, Ratcliffe declassified a review of the 2016 investigation, which suggested that the process may have been flawed from the beginning. The review highlighted concerns about how the investigation was conducted, noting that key intelligence officials, including Brennan and Comey, may have bypassed standard procedures. The report pointed out issues such as a rushed timeline and limited involvement from other intelligence agencies, which could have compromised the investigation’s integrity.
Under President Barack Obama’s direction, Brennan, Comey, and then-Director of National Intelligence James Clapper were tasked with examining Russian attempts to meddle in the election and any potential connections to the Trump campaign. However, the review found that Brennan chose to include the controversial Steele Dossier in the final report despite objections from senior CIA officials. This decision raised questions about the credibility of the assessment.
The after-action report identified several procedural abnormalities, suggesting that the investigation may not have been as thorough as it should have been. Brennan’s approach to the evidence, particularly his preference for maintaining a consistent narrative over ensuring analytical rigor, has drawn criticism. Ratcliffe’s findings have led to calls for accountability, with some officials stating that Brennan violated public trust.
As the FBI moves forward with these investigations, the implications for both Brennan and Comey could be significant, depending on what the inquiries uncover. This situation continues to unfold, and many are watching closely to see how it will impact the broader narrative surrounding the 2016 election and the actions of those in charge of national security at the time.