Fact Check: Brennan and Comey are under criminal investigation for potential wrongdoing
What We Know
Recent reports indicate that former FBI Director James Comey and former CIA Director John Brennan are indeed under criminal investigation. The Justice Department confirmed that it has opened criminal probes into both individuals, specifically related to their involvement in the investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election (Washington Post). This acknowledgment is significant, as it marks a rare instance of the DOJ publicly confirming ongoing criminal investigations involving high-profile former officials.
The investigations reportedly stem from allegations that both men may have made false statements during their testimonies to Congress. CIA Director John Ratcliffe referred Brennan for investigation over claims he allegedly made while testifying, while the specifics regarding Comey's alleged false statements remain less clear (CNN). The investigations are part of a broader scrutiny of actions taken during the Russia probe, which has been a contentious issue in U.S. politics (Reuters).
Analysis
The confirmation of these investigations comes from multiple reputable sources, including the Washington Post and CNN, which enhances the credibility of the claims. The DOJ's unusual public acknowledgment of the investigations adds a layer of authenticity to the reports, as such statements are typically reserved for completed investigations or significant developments.
However, it is essential to note that while the investigations are confirmed, the scope and potential outcomes remain uncertain. The DOJ has stated that it does not comment on ongoing investigations, which leaves many questions unanswered about the nature of the alleged wrongdoing and the potential for charges (Washington Post). Furthermore, the political context surrounding these investigations cannot be ignored. Both Comey and Brennan have been frequent targets of criticism from former President Donald Trump and his allies, which raises concerns about the motivations behind the investigations (CNN).
The sources reporting on these investigations vary in their political leanings, with some, like Fox News, being known for a conservative bias, while others, like CNN and Washington Post, are generally regarded as more centrist or liberal. This variance in source reliability should be considered when evaluating the implications of the investigations.
Conclusion
The claim that Brennan and Comey are under criminal investigation for potential wrongdoing is True. The investigations have been confirmed by multiple credible sources, including the Justice Department itself. While the details surrounding the investigations are still emerging, the acknowledgment of these probes signifies a serious legal inquiry into the actions of both former officials during a highly contentious period in U.S. political history.
Sources
- FBI launches probes into former FBI, CIA directors, Fox ...
- Former FBI, CIA directors under investigation, DOJ ...
- Ex-FBI Director Comey and ex-CIA Director Brennan are ...
- Trump addresses Brennan, Comey FBI investigation reports
- FBI launches criminal investigations of John Brennan, James ...
- Trump assails ex-FBI, CIA heads amid reports of criminal ...
- FBI Reportedly Launches Criminal Investigations into Comey ...
- The Situation: The Investigation is the Point
