DOJ probes ex-CIA, FBI directors over 2016 Trump-Russia investigation

Lauren Keenan
The DOJ is investigating former CIA and FBI directors Brennan and Comey related to the Trump–Russia investigation, according to a report.
Image credit: Gary Cameron/Reuters
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Summary

Comey, Brennan under investigation

Former CIA Director John Brennan and former FBI Director James Comey are under DOJ investigation for possible misconduct during the Trump–Russia probe.

Probe into allegations

The inquiry allegedly focuses on potential false statements to Congress and other illegal actions.

Under review

Brennan's case is reportedly tied to a declassified review, while details on Comey remain undisclosed.

Full story

Former CIA Director John Brennan and former FBI Director James Comey are reportedly under investigation by the Department of Justice for potential criminal actions. The inquiries are connected to a 2016 probe into alleged ties between President Donald Trump and Russia, Fox News reports.

Citing anonymous DOJ sources, the investigation is reportedly examining whether Brennan or Comey committed any illegal acts during the Russia probe, including making false statements to Congress, which is a federal offense.

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Ratcliffe referral prompts FBI review

According to Fox News, CIA Director John Ratcliffe has reportedly sent evidence suggesting possible misconduct by Brennan to FBI Director Kash Patel for further review.

The anonymous source told Fox News they could not disclose specific details about the criminal referral Ratcliffe made regarding Brennan. The source did note that “Brennan broke the public’s trust and should face consequences for his actions,” according to the outlet.

Brennan is under investigation following the recent declassification of a review indicating that the 2017 report on Russian interference in the election was rushed and did not follow standard intelligence procedures.

Comey also under scrutiny

DOJ sources also said Comey is under investigation, though details remain undisclosed. Comey led the FBI’s 2016 Trump–Russia probe. Trump dismissed Comey in 2017, appointing Special Counsel Robert Mueller to lead the investigation.

Mueller’s final report did not find sufficient evidence to charge any Trump campaign members with criminal conspiracy related to Russian interference in the 2016 election.

White House response

Straight Arrow News has reached out to the DOJ for comment.

“I am glad to see that the Department of Justice is opening up this investigation,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said while appearing on Fox News.

Lauren Keenan
Lauren Keenan
Lauren Keenan was an anchor and reporter for Straight Arrow News.
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Why this story matters

The investigations into former CIA Director John Brennan and former FBI Director James Comey over their roles in the 2016 Russia probe highlight ongoing scrutiny of intelligence and law enforcement actions related to high-profile political matters and their implications for public trust in government institutions.

Accountability in intelligence and law enforcement

The reported investigations focus on whether senior officials adhered to legal and ethical standards, raising questions about oversight and responsibility within major government agencies.

Political implications of investigations

The cases are linked to inquiries into the 2016 election, which remain politically sensitive and demonstrate how criminal investigations may impact public perception and political discourse.

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Context corner

The investigation follows years of political controversy regarding Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election and subsequent inquiries, including the Mueller and Durham investigations. The controversy highlights longstanding partisan divides over government oversight, intelligence community practices and the accuracy of the Steele Dossier, which has been both scrutinized and criticized since its publication.

History lesson

This situation follows historic instances of contested or politicized intelligence and investigative actions in U.S. history, such as during the Watergate scandal or the 9/11 Commission. Past reviews, such as those into the Iraq WMD intelligence, have similarly revealed process failures, disputes over tradecraft and claims of politicization within federal agencies.

Policy impact

If the investigations yield charges or reforms, there could be far-reaching impacts on how intelligence is compiled, how high-level officials interact with Congress, and procedures for handling politically sensitive investigations. Any new policies may strengthen oversight mechanisms and clarify the boundaries for intelligence officers in election or politically charged contexts.

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Sources

  1. Fox News
  2. Straight Arrow News

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Key points from the Left

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Key points from the Center

  • The FBI has initiated criminal probes involving John Brennan, who once led the CIA, and James Comey, the former FBI chief, concerning alleged improper actions during earlier inquiries into claims of Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election.
  • These investigations followed John Ratcliffe's declassification last week of a 'lessons learned' review about the 2017 Intelligence Community Assessment's creation and a referral for Brennan's potential prosecution.
  • The CIA review identified shortcomings in the intelligence evaluation process but upheld the finding that Russian President Vladimir Putin intended to influence the 2016 election to benefit Trump.
  • Fox News Digital reported the probes based on unnamed Justice Department sources, noting the scope remains unclear and that a criminal investigation does not guarantee charges.
  • The investigations could lead to accountability for Obama-era intelligence officials amid ongoing scrutiny over the 2016 election interference assessments.

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Key points from the Right

  • The FBI has initiated criminal investigations into former CIA Director John Brennan and former FBI Director James Comey for alleged misconduct related to the Trump-Russia investigation, including possible false statements to Congress.
  • CIA Director John Ratcliffe referred evidence of wrongdoing by Brennan to FBI Director Christopher Wray, indicating potential prosecution.
  • The investigations explore the possibility of a broader conspiracy involving both Brennan and Comey, who have faced public criticism regarding their roles in the Trump-Russia probe.
  • The investigations do not guarantee charges will be filed against Brennan or Comey, and the full scope of the probes is currently unclear.

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Sources

  1. Fox News
  2. Straight Arrow News